Russian Tech Grows Amid Economic Turmoil
Despite the economic slump, broadband Internet penetration and digital television investments in Russia have been increasing, according to analysis released Thursday by the consulting firm Frost & Sullivan. Russia is also continuing to push the use of third generation mobile services. "Based on the competitive environment and growth potential, we are likely to see further rollout activity, followed by a period of investment in products and services to capitalize on the network infrastructure over the next three years," the firm wrote. The Russian government is now focusing on the analog-to-digital TV transition with investments in that project expected to reach $12 billion through 2015. Private investors will provide the bulk of the funds, the report said.
However, while broadband Internet penetration grew in Russia in 2008, at 10 percent penetration the country still falls behind Western Europe, according to the research. The firm found that a number of Russian regions are increasing broadband penetration. But "when looking at Russia in terms of technology advancements, it is impossible to disregard the disparity between Moscow, other major cities and the country's rural areas," said Frost & Sullivan analyst Iwona Petruczynik in a statement. Read more about Frost & Sullivan's analysis here. -- Winter Casey
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