At the same time as the company, the world’s largest mobile operator, increased its subscriber base to more than 710 million, its net profits increased to $20.8 billion on revenues up 6.1 percent.
China Mobile said revenue growth last year was mostly driven by its data business. The company said the number of its subscribers rose by 9.3 percent to 710 million. Some 87.93 million customers joined its 3G network.
This news comes at a time when recent reports suggest that the company has entered talks to partner with Apple on undisclosed projects. The reports have also raised hopes that the mobile operator will soon be able to offer Apple's iPhone.
Competition in China's huge mobile market is growing and costs are rising as companies invest in new technology. The demand for smartphones is booming as investment in infrastructure reaches more of the population.
