Multimode Wireless: The New Mobility Value Chain

By Dean Bubley, September 2003

In the first research report in a new series, Disruptive Analysis considers the blending of multiple network technologies in a single mobile device, network or service.

Recent months have seen accelerating developments in multimode mobility, particularly involving roaming between cellular and WLAN networks. Dual-mode phones, bundled services from network operators and hybrid chipsets have started making headlines.

Broader notions of “seamless multi-access” or “always best connected” networking often incorporate fixed or broadband connections as well.

In theory, multimode has the potential to work around the constraints of today's wireless solutions, offering business or private users a combination of ubiquity and an optimal trade-off of price vs. bandwidth vs. reliability.

Unfortunately, it is not that simple. The multimode field still commands only limited awareness among users - and near-zero consensus among vendors on applicability. It has emerged in haphazard fashion from a variety of disparate starting points.

It is now starting to coalesce into a set of significant opportunities for suppliers, customers, service providers and investors. However, it also poses some serious threats to existing wireless/mobility business models. Cellular operators face some particularly severe risks and may act as a brake on the sector, despite their apparent early attempts to embrace it.

The interplay between services, devices, networks, software and silicon is very complex: multimode functionality is being “enabled” at various levels. Disruptive Analysis’ approach is to assess the consistency of arguments and approach of players in many different parts of the mobility value chain. There are major changes ahead.

This report gives an overview of current developments in multimode wireless, outlining the landscape of participants, the current “state of the art” in terms of products and services offered, likely early-adopter niches and a broad prediction of the future development trajectory of multimode wireless. It also provides the first numerical market forecasts of the arena.

The report has been developed as part of Disruptive Analysis' ongoing research initiative into the Multimode Wireless arena, encompassing over 100 interviews over the past 12 months.

For more information about obtaining a copy of the report, or contributing to future research in this field, please email multimode@disruptive-analysis.com