In the U.S. and Europe, wireless devices will supplement PC Internet access. However, in developing countries, where wire-line Internet infrastructures are not in place, wireless devices will be the primary means of access.

Dr. Egil Juliussen, the author of the report, says, "The wireless Internet will take off rapidly once always-on service and useful content for the small displays of wireless devices are available."

Regardless of the hype of next generation PDAs and smartphones, Dr. Juliussen told Newsbytes that high-end products will only account for about 10 percent of devices. The low-end products, not much more than what is on the market today, will make up 50 to 60 percent, with the rest falling in between.

• In the U.S., the total number of wireless Internet users will be 18 million by 2002, increasing to 83 million by 2005.
• In Europe, the number of individuals using wireless devices to access the Internet will total 59 million by 2002, escalating to 168 million by 2005.
• Worldwide wireless Internet users will total 225 million by 2002, and 730 million by 2005.

The research firm has published two new market research reports.

• The first compiles and forecasts the number of Internet users in over 50 countries worldwide.
• The second report explores the technology trends, product segments, and market opportunities for information appliances.