As Wireless Options Improve, The Network is Key

UC

These last few week saw both the good and bad of emerging wireless platforms and services as Apple unveiled iPhone 4.0 while Sprint brought the long awaited 4G EVO to market. But the advancements these phones offer, especially around video, are tempered by concerns over access bandwidth.

Back in 2008 Nemertes published a study, “Internet Interrupted: Why Architectural Limitations Will Fracture the ‘Net.” In it we noted that access bandwidth limitations would limit the ability for public networks to support innovative new applications, such as video.

These limitations are apparent today. For example, iPhone 4 features a front-facing camera capable of supporting video chat, but only over WiFi networks, and only when those networks are uncongested. (An example of this was highlighted by Apple’s need to have audience members turn off their own WiFi devices to allow Steve Jobs’ Worldwide Developer Conference demo to proceed.)

Sprint’s EVO uses Clearwire’s 4G services, but 4G is not widely available though Clearwire is aggressively adding new cities to its coverage map. Meanwhile, AT&T announced an end to unlimited 3G data services and is moving to a tiered model. The highest end plan contains additional charges for those who exceed 2 GB per month.

Enterprise mobility managers should understand that bandwidth limitations will impact your ability to deliver innovative new services to customers and users. We expect that access bandwidth concerns will drive interest in mobile application optimization as well as interest in protocols such as H.264 SVC to support high quality video over unreliable networks. We also expect to see service providers continue to invest in upgrading their data services as speed and availability become key differentiators in a highly competitive market.