Get Ready for 4G Wireless!
Wednesday, August 19th, 2009Just as 3G wireless technology is hitting its stride, the national carriers are testing and launching wireless 4G. Sprint struck first with WiMax (think really big WiFi hotspots), but Verizon is on its heels with lte (Long Term Evolution). Other carriers are on board with 4G, and the bottom line is that mind-blowing wireless data speeds are here, and will be mainstream soon.
This means more people going online with all kinds of mobile devices. Netbook sales are soaring, but research shows people might be seriously regretting their mini computer purchase. iPhone sales are way up, but can a pocket sized computer really take full advantage of 100Mbps data speeds? Maybe 4G will mean more powerful large screen laptop computers will be relevant again. (I’m writing this on my 17inch laptop, so you can guess what I’m rooting for…) But we’ll likely see the same trends continue – faster & more powerful mobile devices giving people ready access to the Internet all the time.
But is your business ready for everyone to have the real Internet in their pocket or backpack?
Ultimately, you need a mobile strategy – and one that takes into account both small screen browsing and anytime access. Are you giving people the opportunity to buy or connect with you quickly? Does your site give users the information they need right away? (I keep hearing Jakob Nielsen whisper, “Usability” in my ear…)
Faster Internet rocks, but is your business positioned to take advantage or miss out?





