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Upcoming Wireless Battle
Telco's seem to be switching sides
Latest news reveals that Intel has pulled out of 3G and Ericsson has pulled out of WiMAX. Intel is reported to have stated that all its notebook platforms will be WIMAX capable, essentially pulling the plug on 3G. Ericsson on the other hand says 3G is where its at.
In my opinion, the reason Ericsson pulled out of WiMAX is strictly because of revenue. Currently, WiMAX is not getting the most bang for the buck. 3G and 3.5G have already been deployed all across Europe and a large customer market exists. In addition, according to sources, Ericsson complained about the lack of devices combining voice and WIMAX data compared to hybrid 3G devices available today. In the end, its all about eh money. The 3G technology already has an existing market, infrastructure and device manufacturers, while WIMAX is still a relatively new technology still looking for markets and customers.
What does all this mean? Well, an increase in competition for one. And this is great for us consumers. The same way DSL and Cable ISP’s battled for subscriptions; hopefully the battle between WiMAX and 3G means lower prices for the rest of us!
Zain Y. Shah
