PocketMatrix

With 3G communication just around the corner, it's a imminent fact that our cell phones and PPCs will merge into one. The question is, how soon? Some say it can be as early as decemner of 2002 but is it worth it to buy one of those expensive PDA/Cell phones at this stage? Mobile internet with 3G technology promising 144kbps speed. The things we can do with such a thing!

Is it really going to happen or is it just a hype?
How soon will it happen?
Most importantly, when will it be affordable to a common folk like myself?

What are your thoughts?

actually 3g is supposed to reach speeds of 3mbs hehe, and docomo has been working on 4g that runs at 100mbs hehehe. well verizon launched its Express network, only in a few areas right now, but its only an extra $30 a month for unlimited access at 144kbs. + what you normally pay for you cell phone, and you could also use it with your pocketpc, and PC. also, im waiting for a bluetooth cellphone that supports this network, and getting an SDIO bluetooth card for my Maestro!!! (leaving a free big CF card slot !!!)

Yes, the 3G technology is SUPPOSED to reach higher bandwidth.
However, with the defense department already in use of the spectrum required for that kind bandwidth, it is not something we can use anytime soon.

NTT Docomo, Samsung, and other asian coutries have more freedom and public demand for the technology making it worth while for investment.

US has a Huge market potential but Americans are a bit in tha attitude of 'lets see how it works out for them'. Thus my question arouses again... How soon will it be availabe to the commoners at an affordable price?

well, like i said, verizons 1xRTT service is already available in certain places, and only costs $30 + you normal plan, you get unlimited internet usage also. its about $20 cheaper than DSL!! also, but not as fast, but wireless

I would much rather have quicker fixed-installation than slower mobile. Still, it is something to look into.

http://www.verizonwireless.com/internet ... index.html



Introducing the Mobile Office Kit for Express Network
Choose a Mobile Office Kit for your Express Network data-capable phone and connect your laptop computer over our Express Network with speeds bursting up to 144 Kbps*, without a separate ISP account! Plus you can use Verizon Wireless's Quick 2 Netsm circuit-switched connection to the Internet at 14.4 Kbps throughout our digital service area.

* The Express Network is capable of data speeds bursting up to 144 Kbps. You will experience slower data speeds dependent on network and equipment capabilities and other variables of wireless service.

Here is striaght off there webpage.



http://www.verizonwireless.com/express_ ... index.html


Access these fantastic features using technology that allows speeds bursting up to
144 kbps!*

* The Express Network is capable of data speeds bursting up to 144 Kbps. You will experience slower data speeds dependent on network and equipment capabilities and other variables of wireless service.



This is just like the disclaimer Modem vendors have for the 56K modem. You can only get so fast of a connection due to power limitations that the FCC put on them.

If you want and so it is not looking like I am doing overkill here I will post what I find about Sprint also that I can find as public domain information found on the internet.

I was on the wireless and cellular project for my company that I am able to know this information. Phase 2 of this project will start as soon as Vendors flip the swtich and puts these high speed networks all over there footprint and not just select cities.

Here is some more information for Verizon Data services

http://news.com.com/2100-1033-917511.html?tag=fd_top

This is telling the basic data speeds and to which it can *burst* to 144 and also showing the pricing plans for both residential and consumer.

Most of the american providers provide bursting to those 144k speeds, which barely meets the requirements for 3G.

I guess I'm the only one here who has had good ATTWS expreience. Plus, since they've partnered with DoCoMo I predict a very fast expansion in their network.

But I guess it depends on who partners with Qualcomm to see how the 1xRTT pans out.