“They have high-speed network links back to planet Earth. The architecture diagram of Mars Rover looks just like the architecture diagram of any ol’ Earth-based, end-to-end enterprise app. And they’ve got this problem that the network link is very slow… it has high latency.” Well of course. It covers a hundred million kilometers. In today’s program, we bring you a special year-end wrap-up including a couple of clips that didn’t make it into our regular programming. Join us for WWJ’s special year-end web video! Thanks to all for your comments and support, we look forward to another super year in 2003.

Comments from Wireless Watch Japan Editor-in-Chief Daniel Scuka:

2002 Year-end Program

This year, there’s been no lack of people, companies, or technologies to cover for you. Highlights have included the launch of 3G networks by KDDI in April and J-Phone in December, the launch of baby i-mode wireless Internet systems in Europe, and – for the first time – we saw Japanese content, application, and service providers start exporting the mobile revolution overseas.

First up, we’ll meet once again with Java creator James Gosling and hear how he’s working on the challenges of wireless communications over distances that are truly astronomical (out-take from our September Java focus series). This discussion reminds us that we’re glad we’re not paying NASA’s packet fees! Not directly related to Japan, perhaps, but fascinating nonetheless.

Talking about the Jet Propulsion Lab (JPL) where he’s now researching how data networks communicate from Mars back to Earth, Gosling says: “They have high-speed network links back to planet Earth. The architecture diagram of Mars Rover looks just like the architecture diagram of any old Earth-based end-to-end enterprise app. They’ve got big honk’in servers that have all the data in the databases. And they’ve got this problem that the network link is very slow. It has high latency.” Well of course. It is, after all, a couple of hundred million kilometers away.

Afterwards, we’ll finish up with a 3G blooper brought to you courtesy of a major wireless carrier wherein a much talked-about speedy network isn’t, um…, quite so speedy. Plus: scenes from this year’s 45-program line-up.

Merry Christmas, Happy 2003, and Enjoy!

Related posts:

1. Tapping into the future of wireless communication
2. AT&T Wireless Moves Ahead With 3G Network
3. Fujitsu’s New VoIP/PHS Handset
4. Digital TV Cell Phone Test Drive
5. Test Drive on Sharp’s J-SH53 Handset

Some sage advise when entering new turf; Stop, Look and Listen.. it’s also good to secure a local guide. Japan is the cradle of mobile civilization – we have been dedicated to this space since 2001 – trust our archives here offer some useful material.

Domestic activities continue to set the pace, and sharp players are looking at global markets. We have hard-earned industry expertise and trusted network of contacts with access to advanced intell. and potential deal flow. Need a lift.. Ok, buckle-up!