Must-Have Wireless Data a Big Opportunity for Partners

With the availability of more data-capable mobile devices and convenient applications for the business market, wireless technology is becoming a hot topic.

In fact, as higher-bandwidth networks are deployed, mobile applications and devices are becoming extensions and enablers of the enterprise as a whole, making this mission-critical segment a big opportunity for partners.

This “beyond voice” trend, which includes everything from mobile e-mail and salesforce automation to location-based services to wireless IP PBX extensions, is creating new requirements for businesses.

Today’s session, “Wireless Data: Feed the Addiction,” focuses on this burgeoning market segment. Panelists will discuss specific enterprise applications and the growing number of data-ready devices in the market. Helping businesses navigate through the options and select the app/device combo that’s right for their needs can bring a lot of business to a dealer, particularly in the wireless e-mail arena.

“Mobile devices are becoming a core part of enterprise infrastructure, driven by the rapid adoption of wireless e-mail solutions,” said Steve Brazier, president and CEO at analyst firm Canalys.

Wireless data devices represent a good revenue stream too. Smartphone unit sales almost tripled from 2004 to 2005, and increased by 50 percent in the first half of 2006 over 2005, reports In-Stat. IDC expects shipments of these converged mobile devices to reach 63 million units worldwide by 2010.

Smartphones are optimized for both voice and data, including the ability to process applications just like your PC back in the office. Beginning at the attractive price point of $99, they will represent the next device rush for businesses. The session also will cover PC cards and a range of integrated devices.

Speakers will include Dr. Alan Zhou, the president and CTO of Top Global USA; Rob Chamberlin, founder and CEO, True Wireless; and Samina Rind, founder and CEO of StarMobile. StarMobile’s proprietary multicarrier software allows clients to establish an additional revenue stream from wireless activations commission.

The session will be moderated by Natasha Royer Coons, founder and president of TeraNova Consulting Group. TeraNova’s mission is to provide mobility solutions and wireless WAN products, services and expertise to channel partners nationwide.

Canalys www.canalys.com
StarMobile www.starmobileusa.com
TeraNova Consulting Group www.teranovaglobal.com