Two Code Division Multiple Access carriers launched limited data services last week that involve linking wireless phones to laptop computers via a cable, allowing the phones to act both as a voice device and wireless data modem.
Such a solution has been available from Global System for Mobile communications providers for some time because the GSM standard included data transmission specifications from the start. The announcements by CDMA carriers Vodafone AirTouch plc and GTE Wireless portend a future quickly approaching in which GSM carriers no can longer use their data capabilities as a differentiator.
“CDMA, being a later-generation technology, had some catching up to do, with the promise that when it did, it would be better. We’re delivering on that promise,” said Jonathan Marshall, director of corporate communications for AirTouch, which launched the NetAccess service in its Michigan, Salt Lake City and Seattle markets.
Customers wanting the NetAccess service will need to buy the new Qualcomm Inc. Thin Phone, which features a CDMA microbrowser as well as a connection kit for $60, which includes a cable and configuration software for the computer.
Marshall said other phone models will be added in upcoming months as Motorola Inc. and other vendors introduce their new CDMA models.
AirTouch said rates for the data service will be the same as its voice airtime rates. The company said it plans to extend its NetAccess coverage nationwide by next year, once it signs the necessary roaming agreements.
Marshall said the NetAccess service is AirTouch’s first step onto the wireless data playing field. He said the carrier intends to introduce smart phones later this year-in particular, the soon-to-be-released NeoPoint phone-capable of data services independent of a laptop.
GTE’s data solution also features a wireless phone tethered to a laptop computer. It plans to introduce it this fall in Akron, Cleveland and Cincinnati, Ohio; Austin and Houston, Texas; Birmingham and Huntsville, Ala.; Bloomington and Indianapolis, Ind.; Greensboro and Raleigh, N.C.; Honolulu; Lexington and Louisville, Ky.; Memphis, Nashville and Chattanooga, Tenn.; Norfolk, Richmond and Roanoke, Va.; San Diego, San Francisco and San Jose, Calif.; Seattle; and Fort Meyers and Tampa, Fla.
GTE will use its upgraded digital network, enhanced with Wireless Application Protocol technology, to allow data transfer. GTE said prices for the service will vary depending on which capabilities subscribers choose.
GTE also said it is testing the Revolv service from Wireless Knowledge L.L.C., with plans to begin customer tests next month. Revolv allows phone users to access e-mail, calendar and contact information from their desktop personal information management system directly on their wireless device.
According to a recent Yankee Group study, use of wireless networks for data transmission is growing. Of the current estimated 70 million U.S. wireless customers, about 1.8 million use wireless networks to transmit data using laptops and remote dial-up services, the report said.
