More roaming for the real world
More roaming for the real world - Swiss Virtual Mobile Operator t-net, announced the WeRoam service. The service allows users to seamlessly roam between GSM networks and W-LAN hotspots for wireless data coverage. Using GSM authentication for both GSM and W-LAN service, seems like a clever move. It brings the security of a hardware-based SIM-card to W-LAN authentication, but more importantly it allows users to roam seamlessly, and receive a single bill for this best-of-both-worlds service.
Although the service initially only covers W-LAN roaming, the goal of GSM/GPRS and WLAN roaming is clear.
Combine this with Nokia's new D211 W-LAN and GPRS data card, and suddenly we're getting somewhere.
Taking the hint - 3G operator MmO2, with licenses to operate UMTS networks in the UK, Germany and the Netherlands (and looking to add Ireland), has apparently taken the consequence of the lack of 3G handsets, and the severe lack of market interest in 3G services, and has postponed it's planned £3 billion pound development of 3G networks, pending stronger market demand. Ouch!
