Wanda, the Next Step In Wireless Products

As reported on CNN's money page today, TI will be releasing this year a chip including 3 leading communication standards. Included are GSM for mobile telecommunications, Wi-Fi for wireless broadband, and Bluetooth, for short range communications.

I feel another wireless moment coming. Imagine the possibilities, of these three technologies working in concert. One initial idea suggested by the article is particularly interesting. I could be talking on my cell phone through a Bluetooth enabled wireless handset, while browsing the internet through the same device.

At this point, the notion of what a cellphone is immediately blurred. In fact, a bold prediction is that this could become the killer application for Bluetooth. This should lead to a rapid movement towards the use of smart devices in place of current cell phones and pdas. Look for larger, brighter screens, coupled with smart user interface technology.

Also, a smart device might be able to measure GSM and broadband signal strength before making a call. If mobile is weak, a call could be routed to voice over IP (VoIP). A really smart device could even factor in considerations such as the number of minutes remaining on the a mobile subscribers monthly rate plan before making the decision.