Broadband subscribers now total more than 600 million end-users. The analysis firm said that while Ka-band satellite services still represent fewer than 2 percent of total connections, the technology is forecast for a stunning, long-term growth rate in poorly connected areas.

   “The increasing rate we see reflects consumers’ desire for a broadband connection, even when the most cost-effective fixed technologies aren’t available,” Point Topic said in the report. “Satellite connections had grown 9 percent during the last year. The launch of the Ka-band satellites in America and Europe is making an impact. The step change in bandwidths and costs have moved the space-based technology closer to the market average for consumers and they are voting with their feet.”