Digital Cities: 100 RFPs in cities with over 100K in 2006?

Open Network Standard has taken root - buisness model in which an operator would extend end customer connectivity to a number of competitors.

Licensed Spectrum - as networks are deployed, spectrum becomes a constraint and may impact on Unlicensed networks - will WiBro be enabled in licensed and unlicensed spectrum?

Paul's concerns looking forward? 1) Not enough VC capital to fund the deployments.What will it take to free up the capital needed? 2) Need more reputable Tier One service providers; and 3) Need an affordable wireless MANAGEABLE bridge so that the service provider can manage services remotely and efficiently.

Moore's Law ensures that the necessary technology to drive this business is available and affordable. The Intel Digital Communities initiative is a great resource for understanding the benefits that accrue from these projects: networked parking meters, automated vehicle location tools and other wireless asset management programs, focused industry vertical solutions, the list goes on and on.

Where are we now? Digital Divide has morphed into Digital Inclusion. This is my two cents worth here: We all benefit when we bring more people onto the Internet - that's Network Economics, not Philanthropy. Back to Paul - the conundrum of the Digital Divide is that every new adoption and move forward widens the gap as long as there are people lagging. Intel is launching programs, 18 in total, (as are Dell and IBM too), to address Digital Inclusion globally. Paul highlighted efforts in France, Brazil, Egypt, and the Phillipines. Its about network, network devices, financing, and training. Here in Corpus Christi, just down the highway from Austin, the city is dealing with Dell.

We are in a crisis now, as yet unacknowledged. The world is changing faster and faster. What will this all mean in 2010 (just a few years away, by the way)? Cities that get active now are gaining a seat at the table in 2010. They are gaining the experience and putting their communities at the front of the line. 2.5 GHz spectrum usage in this area is on the horizon.