Thanks for your thoughts about 802.11, it was an interesting discussion. Mostly for your ability to draw Engineer into a technical fray, helps us all learn a little more from the experts.
I think that you have proven that 802.11 will occupy an important niche in wireless data. For companies or groups that derive additional benefit from and for customers to offer access could be positive. You spend $10,000 flying our airline, we will offer you internet access our lounge. You buy your coffee or books from us, we will offer access to the net while you are here. The case for any widespread deployment just is not there. Localized, niche market.
It is also clear that anybody who needs access to data wherever they are will do so via traditional wireless, and the 147,000 unsolicited applications for Doh!CoMo service that they couldn't provide is a small indication that demand will be there. It will be interesting to see the extent of success of 802.11 when actual, functioning high speed wireless data is available in less than two years. Will you want to carry both 802.11 and CDMA? Unless you want to hunt down an 802.11 available area any time you need access, you will carry CDMA.
IMO, the winner will be a CDMA modem in the laptop with its own connection, bundled into a monthly package with your regular phone. QCOM has said there is a business case (read profitability for the carriers) to offer unlimited access for $40. Bundled with a voice package of my choosing, I will be first in line. |
