Analysts at U.K.-based Juniper Research believe there is a significant opportunity now for WiMAX as a DSL substitute technology. The firm predicts as much as 12% of the global DSL installed base will be substituted by WiMAX by 2013.

"WiMAX will be an attractive offer in areas where there are no wired networks, and in areas where the existing DSL speed is suboptimal," said Juniper analyst Howard Wilcox.

"WiMAX will solve the broadband access problem for users located at the fringes of DSL coverage. This is in fact the case in a number of developed nations such as UK, USA, Ireland and Scandinavia, and WiMAX network operators are deploying networks to address this market need. Additionally in developing countries - such as India - network operators are aiming to provide basic connectivity."

The vast majority of the WiMAX 802.16e trials and network contracts which are being announced almost daily will begin by providing fixed broadband. Mobile usage will develop after initial demand for fixed and portable services, says Juniper. This will be an added benefit for subscribers.