Here Come the Alternative Wireless Networks
February 3, 2011
Dish Buys DBSD, Considering LTE Network? Is Dish Responding To DirecTV/Verizon LTE Plans? | www.broadbandreports.com
DISH is planning to acquire DBSD, but why? DISH is not necessarily going to become a MVNO as TerreStar has done, offering cellular and satellite service together in one dual mode smart phone. Instead, they may offer an alternative network for B2B purposes focusing on M2M communications. If the established cellular carriers such as AT&T, Verizon, and Sprint don’t act fast, they may miss out on a huge emerging market for connected devices.
Apple’s Strategy vs. Google’s Strategy in the Application Store
February 2, 2011
Apple Responds: We Want Cut of Amazon, Sony E-Book Sales | www.wired.com
Google and Apple are operating their respective applications stores in very different ways. This includes an open development environment with the former and a closed one with the latter. This also includes a more stringent policy with respect to third party deals.
iPhone and Android to Dominate Markeplace
January 31, 2011
Android surpasses Symbian as top smartphone platform | www.fiercemobilecontent.com
It has been said that, when considering market size, and future forecasting in any marketplace, it is important to look at historical trends. The rule of two applies to handset OS.
Paid vs. Free Content: Hulu, Netflix, Google and Apple vs. Cable Operators
January 30, 2011
Hulu Reworks Its Script as Digital Change Hits TV - Hulu Online Cable Move? | online.wsj.com
A huge battle is emerging between free vs. paid content as well as between the emerging channels (Hulu, Netlix, Google and Apple) vs. the established providers, the cable operators (Comcast, Time Warner) and satellite (DISH Network, and Direct TV). Where does this leave ABC, Fox and NBC?
Standardizing the Cloud and Cloud Services
January 26, 2011
Cloud Services Forum | www.atis.org
The ATIS (Alliance for Telecommunications Industry Solutions) Board recently approved the launch of the Cloud Services Forum (CSF). The Forum will focus, among other things, on the operators' provision of cloud services, and develop a framework to ensure integration of the network and IT. What is the Cloud? What are the challenges and opportunities? Look for early work within the Control Plane. Look for early successes once 4G is available.
January 22, 2011
After some delay, China will launch TD-LTE this year. China Mobile (CMCC) plans to build trial networks in six cities including Shanghai and Guangzhou with an average 500 BTSs per city, large enough for commercial service. CMCC plans to spend 1.5 billion yuan ($225 million) for the project. In the meantime, MIIT, the government agency that regulates the telecom industry, has reportedly allocated a bandwidth of 50MHz between 2.5-2.6GHz, a spectrum very likely for future LTE service.
Google Offers in beta, will lead to Location-based Coupons
January 22, 2011
Google to Launch Groupon Competitor [EXCLUSIVE] | mashable.com
Word has leaked that Google is in beta with it’s new Google Offers program, which is obviously a competitive response to Groupon. Google will leverage its considerable market position and assets to compete. Google will also likely utilize location determination by way of its integration with Google Maps to offer a location based version of its Offers program.
Drivers for Potential Migration to Verizon due to iPhone
January 19, 2011
Doherty Sees `Exodus' of AT&T IPhone Users to Verizon | www.smartbrief.com
One of the drivers may be perceived better service. The reality is that both Verizon and AT&T will struggle with rolling out 4G service in terms of keeping customers happy while fine tuning the network. Another driver is the mobile hotspot service. Both AT&T and Verizon should focus on value-added service (VAS) applications over 3G and 4G.
LTE for Public Safety - don't forget WiMAX
January 18, 2011
LTE for Public Safety | www.fiercewireless.com
Alcatel-Lucent is one of the leading companies focused on leveraging wireless for public safety applications. As the article states, “The nation's public-safety groups have agreed to move forward and use LTE in the 700MHz band to deliver mobile broadband applications used by police, fire and emergency medical services. “ However, it is important to note that WiMAX also has a role to play in public safety.
Smart Grid Requires Smart Charging for EV
January 18, 2011
Electric vehicle impacts on the utility | www.intelligentutility.com
There is a long-term need for smart charging stations. Initially, there is a need for charging stations period, as there is a need to allow early adopters of EV to charge their vehicles efficiently/effectively. Longer term, the EV has a role in the smart grid, along with distributed power generation, to help even out the power generation load curve.
February 7, 2012
SOPA and the wisdom of Yogi Berra
January 19, 2012
Larger wafers present a growth opportunity for LEDs
January 6, 2012
Smartphones threaten digital camera industry
December 1, 2011
Google music launches: The end of the end for the music industry
November 22, 2011