Java downloads will generate over $4.8bn in mobile revenues by 2009, with mobile games accounting for the vast majority, research has predicted.

The Juniper Research study expects Java to remain the dominant platform for delivering mass-market mobile applications until at least 2009.

Carl Potter, senior analyst and report author, said: "Now that most network operators have invested in the infrastructure required to provide Java download services, one of the biggest hurdles that remains is persuading new customers to make their first Java download.

"But as they begin to take the plunge, 2004 is becoming the year when mobile Java services have really started to take off, both in Europe and North America.

"The vast majority of service revenue will be generated from mobile games, with Java business applications still very much a developing opportunity."

According to the report, the strongest barriers to selling mass-market mobile applications are customer billing complexity, services that are difficult to use and the challenge of delivering a never ending choice of compelling content.