QLVR Version 0.7.0

An article from PC World discusses the newish protocol called Vi-Fi or Vehicle WiFi.  From what the article says, it looks like WiFi is being re-engineered, er um band-aided, to handle seamless hand off from one base station to another.

So I’m scratching my head on a couple of things:

1. Where’s the Vi-Fi infrastructure coming from?  Is it the same guys who already have invested, and are investing, billions of dollars in wireless infrastructure?
2. Will Vi-Fi require new wireless radios or just firmware upgrades?  If it’s new radios then continue on to question three below..
3. What I don’t get is why not focus time and attention on getting WiMax networks off the ground and moving everyone from moderatly slow 3G networks (EVDOrevX/ HSDPA/HSUPA/etc) to 4G now?

There are 3G routers w/ WiFi available now.  Examples include the Phoebus router (CNET review) and Gizmodo’s coverage of a DLink device. If you really need WiFi now then put some junk in the trunk and get your power inverter on until 4G devices hit the market.

In short - there are solutions today to bridge the gap between 3G and 4G wireless networks for auto devices.  Why do we need pull out the duct tape?

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Funny.. I posted a very quick howto on free WiFi in Starbucks and stumbled across this today on CNN: T-Mobile Sues Starbucks Over Wi-Fi Deal.  Apparently, Starbucks soon to be ex-wife, T-Mobile, doesn’t like the new girlfriend, AT&T.  If I were T-Mobile I’d just let it go.  When you signup for the 2 hour complimentary WiFi, it’s very clear that AT&T is providing this - not Starbucks.  Sure, it’s only words and the intent is what T-Mobile is fighting but get over it!  T-Mobile should concentrate on figuring out how to compete with AT&T on other fronts.  Perhaps, T-Mobile could use their $$$ to upgrade their wireless data networks or work out a deal like Sprint/Clearwire WiMax (and Comcast and Google and… ) deal.  

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