Code Division Multiple Access (CDMA) technology is a major force behind worldwide wireless networks. By the end of 2007, the CDMA Development Group (CDG) reported that CDMA had subscribing figures of 431 million for CDMA and 91 million for CDMA 2000 1x. There are also 280 operators worldwide that use CDMA 200 family of standards, as stated by 3GPP2.

OFDM based systems including 3GPP LTE and WiMax that are beyond 3G already have a foothold. HSPA, Evolved, UMB and EV-DO Rev B, on the other hand, are CDMA based. The CDMA Development Group regards having a range of technologies to choose from, thereby creating competition, as healthier for the market.

It has been speculated that instead of 4G being one particular type of technology it will, instead, be comprised of a number of access technologies. As each compliments each other, so the user will be able to enjoy a smoother experience no matter where they are.

However, it is believed by top European vendors that 3GPP and 3GPP2 will come together at the LTE point (2010 - 2011). The same technology would subsequently be used by carriers of both standards. In addition, Qualcomm, who is a major supporter of CDMA, has stated that CDMA could even be used for larger data rates including those for 4G, if a 4x4 configuration was brought in and the bandwidth increased.

Due to cost and the risks associated with new technologies, many operators would prefer a more gradual move towards the new generation. Therefore, it is thought that the HSPA+ and EV-DO Rev B route is the safer one to increased data rates.