Tailoring mobile internet tariffs for prepaid users — a balancing act - From prepaid data ‘sachets’ to hybrid plans
This report is only available to signed in users.
Mobile broadband connections in the developing world crossed the 1 billion mark in Q3 2013, having overtaken the developed region in the previous quarter. By 2017, there will be 3 billion mobile broadband connections in the developing world, more than twice the amount in the developed world.
The range and nature of data tariffs on offer is a key factor influencing the adoption of mobile broadband services across developing economies. In this report, we examine the increasing range of prepaid and hybrid data tariffs targeted at cost-conscious populations in predominantly prepaid markets, balancing the twin goals of providing access and preserving returns on network investment.
Internet penetration by region, 2012
Source: ITU, World Bank, GSMA Intelligence
Related research
MVNOs in Focus: the state of the market and trends shaping growth
The number of MVNOs worldwide has grown by more than 60% over the past decade. This report looks at the shape of the MVNO market today and the next phase of growth.
The Mobile Economy Africa 2025
Mobile connectivity is a cornerstone for building modern, inclusive and sustainable digital economies in Africa. It also enables transformative technologies such as AI to be integrated into the daily activities of individuals and businesses. Additionally, the mobile ecosystem has become a critical driver of economic growth, helping countries navigate structural challenges such as infrastructure gaps, energy constraints, affordability pressures and shifting demographics.
Mobile Data Deck, Q3 2025
The GSMA Intelligence Mobile Data Deck offers a fast track to all the essential data you need to know, with key mobile metrics in one easy-to-use deck of charts. The forecasts to 2030 include connections by region and technology generation, smartphone connections and adoption, and mobile operator revenue.
Authors
How to access this report
Annual subscription: Subscribe to our research modules for comprehensive access to more than 200 reports per year.
Enquire about subscriptionContact our research team
Get in touch with us to find out more about our research topics and analysis.
Contact our research teamMedia
To cite our research, please see our citation policy in our Terms of Use, or contact our Media team for more information.
Learn moreRelated research
MVNOs in Focus: the state of the market and trends shaping growth
The number of MVNOs worldwide has grown by more than 60% over the past decade. This report looks at the shape of the MVNO market today and the next phase of growth.
The Mobile Economy Africa 2025
Mobile connectivity is a cornerstone for building modern, inclusive and sustainable digital economies in Africa. It also enables transformative technologies such as AI to be integrated into the daily activities of individuals and businesses. Additionally, the mobile ecosystem has become a critical driver of economic growth, helping countries navigate structural challenges such as infrastructure gaps, energy constraints, affordability pressures and shifting demographics.
Mobile Data Deck, Q3 2025
The GSMA Intelligence Mobile Data Deck offers a fast track to all the essential data you need to know, with key mobile metrics in one easy-to-use deck of charts. The forecasts to 2030 include connections by region and technology generation, smartphone connections and adoption, and mobile operator revenue.
- 200 reports a year
- 50 million data points
- Over 350 metrics