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Hello!
Happy holidays! This month’s newsletter offers you an excuse to slow down, take a breath, and catch up on the latest telecommunications news. We have even included some gift ideas for the gadget lovers on your list.
The close of 2006 naturally leads us to thoughts of 2007. What changes will the next year bring? What new technological advancements will be available? For one, as of January 1, some Skype calls will no longer be free. Also expected early in 2007 is an online parking service—find a parking spot online, using your computer or mobile phone. What will technology allow next?
Finally, check out our newest podcasts on IMS, and then go to our blog to share your thoughts about this exciting technology.
Have a joyous and safe holiday season, and we will see you next year!
Paul
President & CEO |
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| In
the News
Skype offers yearly calling plan
As of January 1, Skype off-net calls will no longer be free. If users sign up for Skype service before January 31, 2007, they will pay $14.95 per year for unlimited calls to mobile and landline phones in the U.S. and Canada. After January 31, the yearly fee is $30. The average user would save money with a la carte billing (as many users would use their mobile phones or home phones to make long distance calls), but the low yearly fees are appealing. Get all the details here.
Entrepreneurs, listen up
All you wannabe entrepreneurs should check out the blog How to Change the World, created by Guy Kawasaki, former Apple promoter and current venture capitalist at Garage Technology Ventures (historically, many entrepreneurs have done their greatest work in their garages). Perhaps something from your garage will be the next big thing to change the world.
An eBay for parking spots?
SpotScout.com will allow users to find and perhaps even purchase parking spaces using their mobile phones and computers. Initially, the service will use parking information from local garages; eventually motorists who have parked at metered spaces will be able to post their departure times and auction them to the highest bidder. Read more about this service, the legal issues, and potential competitors here.
Holiday gift ideas
Information Week has compiled a list of 80 of the “hottest, weirdest, and most exciting tech gadgets to give (or get) this holiday season.” I’m thinking of a Nabaztag. And, for the CIO in your life, check out these ideas.
A perfect gift for those in need of a quick PowerPoint presentation is this new share site. Built in the same vein as MySpace, Flickr, and YouTube, Slideshare provides the latest and greatest in PowerPoint presentations. Presentations on satire, language training, travel, and even fiber-to-the-home are available for download.
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| Industry
Analysis
What to give this year—a data or voice phone?
Many wireless carriers believe that data revenues will be the source of new growth as the mobile telephone industry growth continues to slow down. In fact, data revenues are expected to pass $11B this year. To contribute to this revenue this holiday season, check out these new wireless gadgets. However, if you want just voice, other cute phones are available for gift giving as well.
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| Tech
Talk
A solution to wireless coverage issues?
“Can you hear me now?” was the long-running tagline of Verizon Wireless, as coverage in many areas has been an issue. However, if your wireless provider uses the 1900 MHz frequency band, your coverage problems might be over. This Popular Science article describes how $44 and a pair of tin cans can be used to create a “cantenna” for your cell phone. The next challenge is to construct an antenna for the 800 MHz frequency band. Have fun and let us know how you make out. |
