The transition to fourth-generation (4G) technology in Thailand will happen at a similarly fast pace as the earlier migration from 2G to 3G, says global network equipment maker Nokia Networks.
The reason is the proliferation of social media and affordable next-generation mobile devices.
Local mobile operators expect to invest a combined 100 billion baht in next year's 4G network roll-out after 4G spectrum auctions take place next month.
"Thailand's mobile data traffic grew by an average of 200-300% in the past two years and will continue next year, thanks to soaring mobile social media usage," said Harald Preiss, head of Nokia Networks for Southeast Asia.
Nokia expects mobile operators to successfully launch their 4G networks by mid-2016.
"We believe the adoption of 4G services in Thailand will be at a fast pace, helped by greater availability of 4G devices priced as low as US$60-80 apiece," Mr Preiss said.
The GSMA Association reported that Thailand had 3.4 million 4G subscribers as of Sept 30.
There are close to 32 million smartphones in Thailand, 27% of which are 4G-enabled devices. Thailand has more than 100 million mobile subscriptions, with 10% annual growth.
"We believe average monthly mobile data usage per subscriber will reach one gigabyte per month by 2020," Mr Preiss said.
Danial Mausoof, Nokia's head of marketing and corporate affairs for Asia-Pacific and Japan, said 4G users consume data at four times the rate of 3G users.
He said local mobile operators must build a heterogeneous cellular network embracing Wi-Fi, 3G and 4G.
Software and service will play an important role in helping mobile operators optimise their networks and manage the user experience.
Moreover, small cell sites will let operators efficiently distribute their networks, particularly in indoor areas. Nokia has 183 4G LTE customers globally.
Mr Mausoof said voice over LTE service, voice over Wi-Fi and quad play service -- which combines fixed broadband internet with TV, fixed-line telephone and wireless -- will be the key value-added services generating new revenue streams for operators.
According to a 451 Research study, telecom data as a service will be a $79-billion market by 2020, up from $24 billion in 2015, due to the emergence of mobile advertising and proximity marketing.
Mr Mausoof said commercial deployments of 5G technology were expected by 2020. The technology could serve Thailand's national broadband and "smart city" policies.
Policymakers should consider high-band frequencies to serve 5G such as the 5.8-gigahertz spectrum, he said.