I’m kinda getting tired of all the muni-WiFi talk.
First of all, folks talk about it as the data-manna from heaven. Nah, it’s only another access method. If done right, it could unleash a whole new level of creativity and products. But, it’s still not going to be a walk in the park for users – it’s still going to be a tad complex.
Second, muni-WiFi will not kill mobile phones. So, enough about crying about loss of market from either side of the argument. Operators, make value instead of stonewalling. WiFi geeks, you’re still going to need a mobile phone, whether it has a WiFi or WCDMA antenna.
Third, muni-WiFi is not new. Does anyone remember Ricochet? I think there was another one called Metro-something or other. That was almost 10 years ago.
Fourth and last, I do agree though that muni-WiFi today has a better chance than the previous umpteen attempts. This time around, there is better connectivity from the base station, more devices in customer hands, and a greater demand. I am not sure, though, if this is the cycle of build-out that will actually take root.
Eh, back to my regularly scheduled program.
Charlie, I think you are right. Wi-Fi is another access method and cities should leave it to businesses to sort it out.
An example of a new approach is Fon (http://en.fon.com). I don’t know yet what will come out of it, but I’m trying it out (see if you can find me).
Considering mobile devices and Wi-Fi, I strongly believe that Wi-Fi will change some fundamentals in how we use our phones and MP3 players (there is going to be at least one by the end of the year). The convenience of Wi-Fi goes straight into the consumer’s heart with the right application (maybe watching your home TV).