NetStumbler

Verizon Opens Up, Will Support Any Device, Any App On Its Network

Kristin Abraham — Mon, 17 Dec 2007 23:45:00 +0000

Verizon has joined the bandwagon and announced a new open access plan for its network. This plan will go into effect next year and means any application can run on any device from any manufacturer and will have full access to the Verizon spectrum.

Verizon representatives say this move was prompted by two different motives, the first being more sophisticated customer needs and the second is an explosion in innovation. They are hoping to see an wave of wireless devices flood the market in more arenas than the traditional handset market.

Some speculate that this decision is tied to the upcoming 700MHz spectrum auction, Verizon denies this was their motivation but the timing couldn’t be more coincidental.
Via [arstechnica.com]

Google May Get Its Open-access Wishes After All; Will Bid In 700MHz Auction

Kristin Abraham — Sat, 01 Dec 2007 01:33:33 +0000

The much anticipated 700MHz spectrum auction in January officially has another bidder. Google has announced that it will toss its hat in the ring.

A Google representative says that the company’s goal is to offer American consumers more choices in an open and competitive wireless world. Officially, Google doesn’t have to announce its plans until December 3rd so until then speculations abound.

Some say Google has no interest in becoming a network provider, others look to the previously proposed four open access provisions, or possibly they will lease space to others. Nothing is certain at this point except that when Google does make its plans known it will create a nationwide buzz.
Via [arstechnica.com]

Apple Eyes The Wireless Auction

Kristin Abraham — Mon, 01 Oct 2007 05:00:32 +0000

The upcoming wireless auction may be drawing another high roller. BusinessWeek has reported that Apple is looking at the possibilities of a purchase.

It’s believed that this chunk of wireless spectrum is the last available for creating a mainstream broadband network. It’s believed that signals in this 700Mhz spectrum will be able to provide faster Internet access than the cellular and WiFi options available today.

One upside of Apple purchasing the spectrum would be service to iPhone owners. They would no longer have to depend on the phone company but could use a net telephony service for cheaper, more reliable service.

There are other implications for Apple and some of them aren’t so good, for instance their margins would definitely drop.

At this point it appears as if Apple won’t bite but they’re approaching the auction well informed.
Via [businessweek.com]

Google Launches US Wireless Crusade

Kristin Abraham — Tue, 25 Sep 2007 17:02:16 +0000

Google is looking to offer 95% of the population free broadband within the next 10 years. Unfortunately, it seems that the FCC is thwarting their efforts.

Google has contacted the FCC and explained to them their interest in a wireless proposal set forth by M2Z Networks. M2Z is hoping to lease an unused slice of wireless spectrum between 2155 to 2175 MHz.

The FCC’s stance is that they’re waiting to hear how the public wants the spectrum to be used and licensed.

Google has my vote!
Via [theregister.co.uk]

Ofcom Spectrum Auction To Spark UK Mobile WiMax Scramble

Kristin Abraham — Wed, 01 Aug 2007 07:16:39 +0000

Mobile WiMax is set to begin a battle with Wi-Fi and 3G networks in the UK. Nortel is pairing with Urban WiMax and Macropolitan to lead the way in this new venture.

The companies recently held a conference between the UK, Canada and the US using this technology on their laptops. Other trials are expected to follow.

In this situation timing is everything as the British Office of Communications is currently planning an auction of spectrum which could be used to convey mobile WiMax and other wireless technologies.

The first products to hit the market may come as early as the end of 2007 but a greater influx is expected by the end of 2008.
Via [computerworlduk.com]