Another reason is that a digital channel can cover a lot more transmissions than an analog channel, meaning an operator can fit more information into each transmission. The underlying implication is more return on investment. Digital networks enable service providers to give to their customers a whole compliment of additional services which include call waiting, voice mail, text messages, answering machines etc.
Digital networks do offer better sound quality but that comes with its limitations (mentioned later in the article). As far as security is concerned digital networks are a step ahead. Since digital networks scramble transmissions into small burst there is less danger of scanning and cloning. Cloning can be termed as the cellular version of hacking. Cloning can be very disruptive/destructive if the account information falls into the wrong hands. Another thing is that digital transmissions consumer less battery power giving not only longer standby and talk times but also smaller, sleek looking battery packs and ultimately aesthetically better phones.
On the other hand we have analog networks. Other than the obvious advantages of digital networks mentioned above there are some features in analog networks that can counter the digital benefits. Starting from the basics, analog is cheaper. It is cheaper for the wireless service provider to install the systems and subsequently it is cheaper for the consumer to use it. Secondly digital mobile sets, because of their sleek looks and cutting edge technology, are expensive as compared to the analogs.
Roaming has always been a problem in the digital world as the industry standard has yet to become widespread. But as GSM has now become the worldwide standard, this problem has lost its teeth. One major advantage with analog is that they have already established huge networks. This gives greater accessibility to the customer, which is a great comparative advantage that the analogs have over digital networks.
