Some 71 percent of all wireless data traffic was delivered to smartphones and tablets using Wi-Fi in 2012, and the figure could rise to 78 percent by 2016, according to a study by Wik Consult for the European Commission. The study finds that while relatively little action is needed at the European level, it recommends a few interventions to ensure that the data offload momentum is maintained. These include seeking to make spectrum in the 5150 MHz to 5925 MHz band available globally for Wi-Fi, continuing to make 2.5 GHz and 3.5 GHz fully available for mobile use, consulting on future licensing options for 3.5 GHz and other potential new licensed mobile frequency bands, and various other measures to reduce the administrative burden on the deployment of public offload services and networks.
European Commission vice president Neelie Kroes welcomed the report, saying that "Wi-Fi is a huge success. It's a win for everybody involved. I will make sure the EC helps to spread use of Wi-Fi through extra spectrum and lighter regulation." She specifically cited systems where consumers share access to their Wi-Fi networks, calling these "a great example of how we can crowd-source a better internet for everyone".
