WIRELESS NUMBERS RISE

The wireless industry gained nearly 11.3 million net subscribers in 1997, according to CTIA. The association estimated the U.S. wireless industry supported more than 55 million subscribers at the end of last year and now supports nearly 58 million. The average wireless monthly bill fell $4.92 to $42.78, said CTIA, and annual revenues increased 16.3 percent to nearly $27.5 billion during 1997.