Wireless Data Services
Technologies, Business Models and Global Markets

There are over 1.3 billion mobile subscribers around the world. It is interesting to note that wireless technologies have been adopted differently in key geographies such as Asia, Europe, and North America. Technologies such as i-mode in Japan, SMS in Europe, PDAs and Blackberry in North America point to the fact that wireless applications and services are not only unique to the culture and business models of a region but their success also depends on how services and technologies are introduced to consumers. This book takes a deeper look into why certain technologies, business models, and adoption strategies succeed while others fail, and how all these elements will impact the future of wireless communications. With the help of examples, case studies and interviews with industry luminaries, the authors identify the key factors behind the success or failure of different blueprints and provide insights into strategies of matching wireless technology and services to global markets.

List of figures; About the authors; Foreword; Acknowledgements; List of abbreviations; 1. Introduction; 2. The impact of globalization; 3. Adoption trends and analysis by region; 4. Subscriber needs and expectations; 5. The wireless value chain; 6. Global wireless technologies: systems and architectures; 7. Global wireless technologies: network, access, and software; 8. Business models and strategies; 9. Business issues and challenges; 10. Technology issues and challenges; 11. Case studies; 12. Perspectives; 13. Future of wireless technologies, applications and services; 14. Conclusions and recommendations; References and recommended reading; Index.

Chetan Sharma is a recognized industry expert in strategy and implementation of wireless data and pervasive computing ideas and solutions. Mr Sharma was formerly Leader of the Emerging Solutions practice at Luminant Worldwide. Prior to this, Sharma served as founder and principal of Luminant's wireless practice. In this role, he oversaw global client engagements, provided vision and strategic direction, conducted wireless research and development, and established partnerships with leading industry players.
Yasuhisa Nakamura is Senior Vice President at NTT DoCoMo USA. He is a widely recognized specialist of wireless telecommunications industry with over 20 years of experience. Dr Nakamura holds more than 50 patents (awarded and pending) and is a frequent speaker at international conferences.