The aggressive pricing strategies initially adopted by European wireless broadband providers drove the sector forwards, it has been claimed.

ABI Research notes that the continent's successful roll-out of wireless broadband services is now leading the way for other countries to implement such technology.

Dan Shey, principal analyst at ABI Research, says: "European mobile operators' aggressive mobile broadband pricing was striking.

"It released the pent-up demand for wireless broadband services and showed the possibilities for growth in other world regions."

The assertions come as ABI Research has launched a new study assessing the global market for cellular modems.

According to the organisation, sales of such units quadrupled from 2006 to 2007, with Europe representing a significant proportion of shipments.

Recent forecasts from the analyst predicted that wireless broadband, home networks and telephones are soon to be complemented by the introduction of cable-free high-definition television (HDTV) services.

However, fewer than 100,000 wireless HDTVs are expected to be installed before the end of 2008.

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