The faster that G* drops rates to make their service a VIABLE replacement to landline systems, the sooner that satellite telephony will be become commercially successful. Charging $5 per minute is a non economical solution, charging $1 a minute is getting much closer to the mark. In my estimation, rates need to get to 50 cents per minute to become popular.
Personally, I don't see the need for G* in the US for a replacement for landline or wireless telephony. I see the greater need for satellite communications for trucks, cars, boats, planes, etc... I would like to see G* focus more on the emerging market for telematics and define themselves as the only way of backing up the terrestrial networks for voice, data, & GPS. These markets should have a zero tolerance for gaps in wireless coverage.
I'm totally unimpressed with G*'s marketing plan to promote G* in backwater villages that are not covered by existing services. There is a reason they con't have telcom service. There is no money to be made because these people have no money.
The greatest opportunity for G* clearly rests in the direction of telematics and GPS. When I am walking around with my cell phone, I don't really care if I lose a call since I can find a landline replacement. However, if I am travelling cross country and my telematic service loses coverage, the whole concept of GPS E 911 service becomes useless. If I am in a ditch trying to get help, I would be furious if my ON Star service or WingCast service could not connect to a e911 operator.
The greater risks and liabilities of transportation are so clearly suited for satellite telphony because there must be a zero tolerance for incomplete coverage. I think that G* has a marvelous future as they focus on the big picture for e 911 services. Forget about the plans to conquer the bush. Stick with telematics. |
