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Huzza! Clear Thinking and Speaking from RIM CEO

Globalcomm: RIM CEO argues against unlimited wireless data

Check out this article and comments from the RIM CEO to other telecom executives for some key insights into the thinking behind the 3G data strategy. In contrast to "fat pipe" metropolitan broadband (Wi Fi mesh and WiMAX) networks that get a lot of play on these pages, the 3G data pipes are constrained by their design. Don't be fooled by the ads - Verizon et al do not want too many people to use their new data pipes.

Call it the "Baby Bear" marketing campaign. Like in the Three Bears fairy tale, they are looking for the "just right" balance of users to generate enough revenue to cover their costs, but not so much use as to strain their network capacity. See
More Limits: Verizon Prevents Treo Use As 3G Modem for more insight. I wouldn't want that marketing challenge. Talk about a fine line to walk.

Glenn Fleishman tells the story much better than I could in this article from late last year, The Surprising Limits Of 'Unlimited' 3G Service.

I predict the choices to the consumer will become ever more clear as the year progresses and large corporate plans become more transparent: Open network where one can surf unfettered at ever faster speeds v. Closed network where one will be constrained to "color inside the lines" and follow the rules. Therein lies the hope for the "little technologies that could" - Wi Fi mesh and WiMAX.

Posted on June 05, 2006 at 06:37 PM

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