The wireless Internet is on its way to establishing a new market for wireless handsets, PDAs, laptops, and other wireless clients, according to a study by Allied Business Intelligence, Oyster Bay, N.Y.
The study, entitled “Wireless Portable Devices: World Market for 2G, 2.5G and 3G Devices and Connectivity to the Wireless Internet,” predicts data-enabled handsets using Wireless Application Protocol (WAP) and iMode, or a combination of the two, will account for 80% of the handsets shipped in 2006, up from 30% in 2000. More than half of all handsets shipped in 2006 will use 2G or 3G technology, of which Wideband Code Division Multiple Access (WCDMA) is expected to have the largest share.
Bluetooth will also play a large role in wireless connectivity. By 2006, 90% of all handsets will incorporate the technology.
The study also examines the evolving wireless personal digital assistant, laptop, and web pad market. A section is dedicated to the global movement in the location-based services application industry. Another section is dedicated to the power needs of cell phones on 2G and 3G networks. The regional wireline and wireless Internet subscriber base is also dissected. Mobile commerce is detailed by revenue and region.