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Technology Stocks : Qualcomm Incorporated (QCOM)
QCOM 182.53+3.5%1:30 PM EST

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To: Clarksterh who wrote (23066)2/19/1999 9:00:00 AM
From: DaveMG   of 152472
 
Clark...

You know I wasn't really thinking specifically about the direct appeal to customers of "our ntework is the latest greatest" although that certainly is a marketing factor that Sprint for example is using. You're question with respect to the way things work in Europe is more what I had in mind and I think the answer really lies in the Vod/Airtough merger. Size/geographical coverage will become paramount. If everyone's using the same technology, and you can use any phone on any network, then those with the biggest networks will presumably win because their capital costs will be lower and their ability to offer coverage without roaming charges will enable them to provide the low cost service. But if you're not such a big player under the illusion that you'll be able to remain independent, maybe convergence is not something you'd feel all warm and fuzzy about, in fact it might completely eliminate the fragmentation you've been able to take advantage of. What does Omnipoint have to offer other than access to "the European Standard"?

Of course this brings up the issue of spectrum and unless I've misunderstood something this is again a CDMA2000 upgrade advantage over GSM is it not, all the more reason for GSMers to try and isolate IS95.

BTW the Omnipoint boutique around the corner from my apt has been clsed for more than a month for "renovation" without any sign of life. All these GSM phones sitting in glass cases like pieces of jewelry, hip metallic colors and all, taking up some very very expensive SOHO real estate. The Sprint and Bel Atl WIZ and Radio Shack tie up is much much more cost effective even if not so fashionable and is a perfect example of Q's nack for leveraging its partners strengths.

Anyway I'm just trying to think about what sort of behind the scenes pressure QCOM might be under and whether or not the majority of operators really do have an interest in convergence. ..Dave
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