Wireless Industry Trend

Over the past months, many discussions that I have with members have changed from trying to determine “which technology should I build into my device?” to those centered upon “how do I utilize the various technologies to create the best device?” This shift in mindset is critical. It implies that the reality that one technology does not solve all problems is sinking in. Also the temptation to use a single technology for all scenarios doesn’t lead to the best solution. Now that this is understood the questions are becoming

• How do I use Bluetooth and NFC to simplify the user experience?
• How can Bluetooth and UWB collaborate to create the second generation WPAN?
• How can Bluetooth and Wi-Fi best be utilized on a single device?

And there are many more. Spending the collective energy of the industry to answer these questions and solve the underlying issues preventing them from being reality today is required to create the best devices for 2006 and beyond. To accomplish this requires organizations such as the Bluetooth SIG, IEEE, Wi-Fi Alliance, NFC Forum, WiMedia, and UWB Forum to work in a collaborative effort as any solution which addresses the questions above require specifications which reference those of the other organizations. This work could be done in a vacuum, but that will lead to less than optimal solutions.

I’m excited to be able to participate in this shift in industry mindset and try to be an active driver for collaboration amongst the various organizations required to create these multi-technology solutions.