MobileInfo.com Advisory: We would like to make following comments on 3G networks:

1. 
   3G networks, when fully implemented (2 to 5 years), will move mobile computing to a new level of performance and capacity. Meanwhile, wireless applications should be implemented carefully. Choose your communications middleware vendor who will allow you to migrate to future networks without application-level changes. Continue to invest in optimizing your wireless network traffic. approximately 25-38 Kbps with GPRS or faster speed with 1xRTT CDMA alternative is more than adequate speed for well-designed transaction-based applications. These interim 2.5G networks can be, in fact, good enough for many optimized multi-media applications where use of graphics is to enhance the current wireless data application user interface. Rich multi-media applications will be affordable in terms of capacity and price only in future.
2. 
   For a reliable production-level national footprint, 3G networks will take longer than industry forecasts. There is significant market development work, business case work for huge investments required and finally engineering work for implementing networks. Each step takes time. First you will see GPRS or Edge in GSM sector. CDMA 1xRTT (Qualcomm technology) that provides higher spectral efficiency is being implemented by a number of carriers in USA and Europe. By 2003-2005 timeframe, you will see 3G coverage only in high-population areas.
3. 
   There is still lack of uniform standards and differences in technologies being employed especially in North America. User organizations should plan for using the capacity of future wireless networks only after detailed analysis of service provider’s network implementation plans, planned coverage and agreements with other network operators to provide national coverage under one umbrella. Perhaps hybrid network strategy is your best bet. No single network technology or operator will meet all your wireless network needs.
4. North America will continue to have multiple technologies and standards – Europe will stay ahead for the next four years. 3G standards will be adopted earlier in Europe and Japan before North America.
5. 
   Wireless multi-media applications must be carefully analyzed from business case point of view. Only selected few applications will become affordable on projected cost structure. However widespread use of wireless multi-media as a general-purpose business application will stay as a target opportunity for the next 6-8 years.
6. 
   If you are a wireless network provider, do plan for these networks quickly. They are going to happen as fast as network service providers can roll them out. If you do not do it, your competitor will do it.
7. If you are a network service provider, price these wireless data services (2.5 G and 3G) low and breakeven period longer. You should be in it for the long haul. Please keep in mind what happened to Iridium.
8. If you are in an end user organization, develop your applications carefully - optimize data stream, user interface, transaction flow, minimize multi-media, allow for wireless network interruptions, disconnected mode, and persistent transaction recovery. Put your best design team on wireless application - it is not a piece of cake as some would have you believe.