News
Issue #2003 - 17 (May 2003)
(Updated May 24, 2003)

INFRASTRUCTURE, PRODUCTS & SERVICES

WiFi News This Week

1. Ericsson backs SIM authentication for WiFi
Ericsson yesterday showed off what it describes as the first standards-based SIM card authentication solution for notebooks. The Ericsson system is based on 3GPP standards, which are expected to receive final approval by the end of 2003, and uses a USB dongle that incorporates a SIM card. SIM card authentication would allow users to automatically roam into different hot spots using their existing wireless carrier as the billing source. Ericsson's system is likely to compete with existing SIM authentication systems from companies such as Transat and Nokia.

For more on Ericsson's new SIM authentication system, go to BWCS http://www.bwcs.com

2. SBC to offer WiFi access through pay phones
Telecom SBC said that  it plans to offer public WiFi access through its pay phones, a move in response to Verizon's recent announcement to launch WiFi service through 1,000 pay phones in the New York City. However, unlike Verizon, SBC says it has not yet decided whether to charge for this service or not. Proxim, Symbol, and Cisco are said to be the front-runners for the contract to WiFi-enable SBC's pay phones. The company has not yet said where it will launch its new WiFi service or how large it will be. Look for more telecoms to roll out WiFi through their pay phones in the months to come. On the cable side of broadband, Comcast has also recently said that if Verizon's hot spot service takes off, it would launch its own WiFi service.

3. IEEE ready to ratify 802.11g 
Source: 802.11 Planet 

IEEE task force has approved the draft for 802.11g specifications - formal approval is expected in June 2003.

4. Orange inks WiFi deal with Air France
Orange is expected to install Wi-Fi at 52 Air France lounges.

MobileInfo Comments and Advisory: We are happy to see ratification of 802.11g. This will avoid proprietary implementation by vendors. There should be fewer inter-operability problems, as a result,

Note: This news release may contain forward-looking statements within the meaning of section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and section 21E of Securities Exchange act of 1934 in USA. Similar provisions exist in other countries. There is no assurance that the stipulated plans of vendors will be implemented. MobileInfo does not warrant the authenticity of the information. Readers should take appropriate caution in developing plans utilizing these products, services and technology architectures.  All trademarks used in this summary are the property of their respective owners.