TD-LTE deployments are picking up steam worldwide, with 39 networks launched in 26 countries, and another 48 operators deploying or planning networks, according to the GSA.
When incorporating the number of operators who are conducting technology trials, nearly 120 operators across the world are investing in the 4G technology, the industry boy said.
The most common TD-LTE frequency band is 2.3-GHz band 40, in use in 19 networks, followed by 2.6-GHz band 38 (9 networks) and band 41 (8 networks).
Out of the 39 networks launched, 13 are dual-mode TDD and FDD LTE networks. One such combination, supported by 152 user devices, involves using 1800-MHz spectrum for FDD LTE and the 2.3-GHz band for TD-LTE.
The GSA has predicted that TD-LTE's share of the global LTE subscriber base will grow to 15% by the end of the year, up from 5% during the first quarter.
The body also calculates that out of the 1,889 LTE user devices on the market, 530 support TD-LTE, up by 330 from a year earlier. This translates to 85 device makers having launched TD-LTE products.
Around 35% of these devices are smartphones, and 96% of these are multi-mode, supporting both 3G systems and TD-LTE.