Get wireless: a mobile technology spectrum

Mobile computing applications allow anytime, anywhere access to the Internet and corporate intranets. For several reasons, the market for wireless data services has grown at a much slower rate than wireless voice. Until recently, portable data devices were bulky, required heavy batteries, and didn't have integrated networking. Wireless services have also had to contend with narrow bandwidths, high access latency, and frequent disconnection. Added to this were inadequate coverage, expensive services, and perceived security problems. Finally, few applications were specifically designed with mobility in mind. New mobile technologies address these problems, making wireless data transmission an attractive alternative for individuals and enterprises. The next few years will see wireless data networks come into their own. Next year (year 2000), the market for wireless data networks is predicted to grow to six to eight million users with seven percent of the total wireless revenues. In fact, wireless data service is projected to be a multibillion-dollar market within five years. The combination of portable gadgets and wireless data services provides exciting opportunities for mobile computing applications.