talkingdigital

What is it going to take to compete with the iPad and killer mobile devices like the 4G EVO?

What will it take to propel mobile computing to the next level?

It will take more than a sleek operating system, multi-touch and a nice app store to convince non-ipad users to get the most out of the mobile web.

There is a good possibility that there is no significant increase in the number of people willing to pay $30 per month for mobile web built-in  iPad or netbook from those willing to pay $60 per month using a MiFi.

However, if HP or Google were to buy Sprint – they could possible take the ubiquitous mobile WiFi game to the next level. Imagine buying a device with a slick OS, capable of running flash and thousands of mobile apps with unlimited (or 5GB capped) 3G or 4G access built into the price of the device.

Would most consumers be willing to pay $500 for a netbook or tablet that includes 2 years of free 3G or 4G access in the price? Would such a device knock Apple and iPad off their game?

Perhaps the next logical hypothetical is to ask, what if Apple bought Sprint or T-mobile? If the purchase of a cell phone were a flat, subscription-less fee would more people buy in at a higher price?

Nobody expects these two industries to converge, but it is interesting to think about what would happen to the market if they did. We think it’s only a matter of time.

We received an email from Sprint today announcing the new 4G EVO Android-powered phone.
We aren’t sure yet whether this is the same as the Supersonic. After a little more research we will post an update.

Four years ago at CES we were told that WiMax was just around the corner. Finally, this Fall, Sprint will actually have WiMax (4G) available in many major markets. If things go as promised (big IF) then Sprint will have their 4G access in place in almost all markets by the time Verizon debuts LTE (their version of 4G) in a handfull of major markets.

There is still a brewing format war between LTE and WiMax, but when it comes to timing, Sprint is way ahead of their competitors.

While reading up on all the new Apple announcements, we received the following email from Sprint. Should we get excited? Is it more than the Pixie? Is it ubiquitous WiMax? We are on the edge of our seats – kind of.

As it turns out, the big announcement was actually pretty big. Sprint is now allowing unlimited mobile to mobile calls to and from any mobile on any carrier if you pay for an unlimited data plan.

I just got a call from the Sprint store. They are going to do them first come, first serve and there will be no waiting list. Please read my other posts to get a grasp of the entire Sprint Pre release fiasco. I am very upset about this and hope that others spread this story around a little.