... If it costs, say $1 minute in today's dollars, I think not many would be using it except for the most important tasks. . . .
Since I believe that wireless costs will slide down a curve steeper than Moore's law, I believe time alone (and the magic of all those impressive engineers doing all that hidden work) will solve the money problem.
What I am envisioning is the possibility of some system equivalent to free incoming calls. For example, is it possible to have some type of basestation which would only service, say, a mile radius around a major airport. The cost of this "signal" would be paid for by rental car agencies, hotels, convention centers, tourist attractions,
restaurants, etc. So when I arrive at this airport, I pull out my "device" and open my "itinerary" file, "announce" my arrival and all reservations confirmed.
If I move out of these sponsored sites, then I am charged per data packet downloaded.
Is this technically possible, in terms of technolgy as well as billing for the providers?
Though I believe it is technically feasible, I challenge the premise that it makes sense. Why would these hotels, restaurant etc. around the airport support this, since you don't come to the airport because of it, you come because it's the airport closest to your destination.
But don't worry, just reread Maurice's posts on p_____g and understand that in the long run it is in the carrier's best interest to maximize the use of their very expensive infrastructure and that doing so means lowering prices. |
