3G: Are we there yet?

Ericsson and Texas Instruments said Monday that they are teaming up to develop custom technology and chips for 3G devices.

My reaction--other than I'm overwhelmed with the acronyms in the statement--is this: How long do we have to hear about 3G?

So far the answer seems to be at least through 2008--that's when handsets with TI and Ericsson's integrated technology are supposed to hit the market.

Maybe it's just me, but it sure seems like we've been hearing about 3G forever. And 3G still isn't rolled out entirely. These 3G (short for third generation) wireless networks have largely been a dud and some companies such as Sprint and Clearwire are talking 4G. Now we can debate whether you should call WiMax a 4G network or not, but it does raise the question about 3G's longevity.

I don't necessarily have the answer, but I'd like to have a real-world wireless network that can hop between the cell network, Wi-Fi, 3G (or any other G) and WiMax to give me service. Frankly, you can keep all the Gs and acronyms to yourself. I want this network and technology hopping going on in the background.

If TI--or anyone else for that matter--can deliver devices that can roam technologies it's a guaranteed winner.

Separately, TI reported revenue of $3.42 billion and earnings of 42 cents a share. These results and the outlook were in line with lowered expectations.