A few things have inspired me to write on this subject. First, my mounting frustration with Time Warner Cable as my internet connection intermittently comes in and out. Second, the numerous reports (here and here) on the explosion of mobile phone use throughout the world. And third, the announcement that Nokia Siemens and Pirelli Broadband Solutions are teaming up to create a box to enhance 3G signals in buildings.
Nokia and Pirelli’s Plan
The plan appears to be to release boxes that would amplify 3G signals inside homes and offices using the new Femtocell technology. The boxes would be installed in the space where you are trying to boost your connection to the network, much like a modem or a WIFI device. I would have questioned the need for such a device a few weeks ago but as I struggled against intermittent internet service through my cable modem I was left trying to figure out alternative ways to connect to the internet at extremely work-critical times.
When Wireless Providers Become Internet Providers
My 3G connection in New York city is about as fast as a slow DSL connection and left with no other choice I found myself researching what it would take to turn my phone into a wireless modem. It didn’t quite work and didn’t save me from a trip up to Starbucks (I have an older Apple laptop without Bluetooth) but it got me thinking. Wireless network providers are truly beginning to compete with cable, DSL, and satellite internet providers. And their competitiveness will only improve as 3.5G and 4G networks come online.
Not only will these more robust networks mean great things for the growing list of useful mobile platforms and applications like Next2Friends, but there are indications that internet access might skip over PC’s and Laptops entirely in developing countries and go straight to mobile. All this is a little bit off into the future, but perhaps not that far off. At the very least I foresee a future where wireless providers at least augment our ability to connect to the internet. But really, I just wanted to save myself a 20 minute walk up to the coffee shop.
Real Life,
Real Time,
Real People,
Hans Erik
Content Marketing Director
Hans at Next2Friends dot com
May 13th, 2008 at 7:26 pm
[…] There is a growing feeling that the traditional separation between internet providers and mobile network providers will continue to blur. This announcement further pushes the point that in the coming years, we will access the internet from a variety of devices, through a variety of portals. Indeed, the ability to access media-rich internet through a robust connection from virtually anywhere will increasingly drive adoption. […]