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2008-01-01
, 11:45
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Posts: 302 |
Thanked: 254 times |
Joined on Oct 2007
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#12
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2008-01-01
, 13:23
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Posts: 833 |
Thanked: 124 times |
Joined on Nov 2007
@ Based in the USA
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#13
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It will never be marketed as an "alternative" to cell phones. It is, and will be marketed as a means of 4G data connectivity.
Sprint has already soft launched service in Chicago and Arlington... A soft launch in Texas is expected Q108.
Soft launch = Network equipment in place...
Nothing vapor about that.
Sprint's intra network (CDMA to iDEN) PTT solution via Qualcomm could be considered vaporware but not WiMAX. WiMAX is a done deal...
At least in those markets
A good place to check what is pending with WiMAX is here >> http://www.wimaxforum.org/kshowcase/view
NEW YORK — 08/08/2006
Sprint Nextel Corp. (NYSE: S) today announced its plans to develop and deploy the first fourth generation (4G) nationwide broadband mobile network. The 4G wireless broadband network will use the mobile WiMAX (Worldwide Interoperability for Microwave Access) IEEE 802.16e-2005 technology standard.
WiMAX Forum Expects Shipment of Certified Mobile WiMAX Products for General Deployment in Early 2008
Vaporware is a software or hardware product which is announced by a developer well in advance of release, but which then fails to emerge,
Right now I have EVDO available from all carriers (and am on contract in a small town in southern Minnesota). I can get data nearly anywhere I go, and most places near freeways is EVDO (with a Cradlepoint pocket router and UM-150 EVDO modem I have high speed internet almost anywhere now). The GSM networks have the same kind of services available. But even EVDO is annoying as one carrier's modem won't work on another carrier's network although the electronics are identical (I was looking at an OQO2 which has an EVDO option, but had to get either sprint or verizon, and I couldn't change it after I ordered it).
WiMax is still in the "early adopter" phase. It sounds great, but for example EVDO only came here with Verizon in December, though Sprint had it for over a year. Having any technology built in that won't be useful for most people for years is not a good idea. And when it does become common there will probably be lighter-sized WiMax to Wifi or Bluetooth access points or repeaters available.