Why Wifi?
Throughout our research into mobile broadband connectivity, we have been presented with a number of wonderful and applicable solutions, but none offered the immediate, affordable, simple connectivity of Wifi. Nearly every laptop sold in the US today has the off the shelf capability of connecting to a Wifi network. Cell phones are now released with multiple radios so they can utilize the power and availability of wifi networks rather than their native cellular network. T-mobile is offering both voice and SMS (text) messaging for free when connected to a Wifi network. The new iPhone was developed for primary use on a Wifi network. In a number of interviews, Steve Jobs CEO of Apple, Inc. has stated that although the iPhone connects through the EDGE network when wifi is unavailable; Wifi is what truly enables the power of this device
“The Cloud”, a wireless provider in the UK, is offering iPod Touch users Wi-Fi access for £3.99 per month, with no minimum term. The announcement came only a couple of weeks after Apple announced a partnership with The Cloud for iPhone users. The Cloud has been promoting its service together with companies such as Nokia (N800 users get free Wi-Fi access) and Vyke (mobile VOIP services).
The reasoning is very simple. There is more available bandwidth with Wifi than with mobile voice networks (EDGE, 3G…), and Wifi is not just for internet access. It is a communications network offering the freedom to connect any digital device over a unified platform. This delivers a tremendous breath of fresh air for developers and consumers alike.
Currently, if you would like to develop a product or interface to be used over an existing wireless network platform, you need permission and you need to pay licensing fees. Neither one of these come easy or cheap, and in the end you have a number of hands in the cookie jar. However, by utilizing an unlicensed spectrum for connectivity you give developers the freedom to create and explore. Ultimately delivering the power of choice back to the user, and open up a world of possibility rather than restriction.
Efanz has been delivering affordable internet access for 7 years now, and we have been offering a premium product for just $15.99 per month where our competitors charge an additional $8 to match our product. Even with that said they can’t touch our level of service. We intend to continue that trend into the broadband market, and Wifi makes it not only a possibility, but a reality.