We’re starting to see more stories about WiMax, a wider area wireless data network that is beginning to to take hold. Does this mean that wireless voice carriers (i.e. cellular companies) are going to have to rethink their strategies?
With VoIP being SIP enabled, the prospect of VoIP over WiMax means a PDA can be IP voice enabled and connected. With free on net calling like Free World Dial Up and SipPhone, Firefly and SKYPE all already established, people will be able to make quality calls at no cost. With low cost PSTN termintation at prices like 2.9 cents in the USA all of a sudden the price of $99.00 for 3000 minutes is not big bargain on a cell any more. Get ready for the price wars in 2005-2006.
But what about Cricket, the small market carrier? Doesn’t WiMax really put a crimp on their type of market, because they are local…..only? Without any contiguous markets, Cricket (previously known as Leap Wireless) may really need to rethink their business, not just their recovery efforts.
Stay connected,
Andy Abramson