Inmarsat is putting heavy emphasis on the Chinese market with its next-generation service, targeting both corporate users and rural communities not covered by cellular networks with data-capable communications. Three Inmarsat 4 satellites are scheduled to begin operation at the end of next year, at a cost of $1.5bn, offering 3G data rates at around $10 per megabyte through a $700, A4-size gateway box.
TeleCommunication Systems, Inc., a global leader in wireless data technology, today announced it has signed a definitive agreement to acquire substantially all of the assets of Kivera, Inc., subject to customary conditions to closing. Kivera brings to TCS leading, proven wireless and internet-based location application software, geo-data professional service contracts, relationships with marquee customers, and leading geographical data sources.
A key patent holder’s demand for royalties has triggered concerns that promising RFID technology could become embroiled in an intellectual-property battle. The protocol is likely to contain certain patented technology from RFID equipment maker Intermec Technologies. The Everett, Wash., company recently demanded royalties for the use of the patents and is suing Matrics, a rival, for allegedly infringing on some of them.
China Telecom will adopt a cautious approach to the introduction of its 3G mobile network once it has received its license, state-run Xinhua News Agency reported. Industry watchers had previously speculated that China Telecom were planning to spend RMB90 billion (US$10 billion) on the construction of a nationwide 3G network, using WCDMA technology.
Intel Corp. released its tri-mode 802.11a/b/g Centrino wireless module late last week, missing its own estimates and severely lagging behind its competitors by as much as two years. Intel’s original Centrino technology hit the scene in March of 2003. The 802.11b wireless product was followed by a backward-compatible 802.11g version in October of that year.
Nagoya Municipal Management Subway will make mobile phones based on the Personal Digital Communications (PDC) system and the cdma2000 system inoperative on trains and train platforms in August or September.
