Wireless Futures

The generation gap in wireless technology is finally starting to close. After years of wrangling, developers have agreed to put their differences aside and let the market decide among a number of technology options for third-generation wireless networks, which could finally deliver the bandwidth needed to put wireless data services on the map. Operators of broadband wireless services already have at their disposal the technology to deliver high-capacity service over fixed wireless links and are now grappling with other issues, such as getting the rights to install their equipment in office buildings. Meanwhile, advances in smart antenna technology could help solve the capacity problems that could occur as more of the communications world turns to wireless.