The Mobile WiMax threat to 3G

hough presently, there seems to be a scramble for 3G services, the service faces a big threat in another technology called WiMax. The evolving technology offers data download speeds 10-30 times faster than 3G.

Also, while WiMax can provide similar services such as 3G, the technology still has to establish itself as a global standard. Globally, only a few operators have deployed WiMax giving higher economies of scale to 3G technologies. However, WiMax enjoys strong backing from companies like Intel, Motorola and Nortel.

So, though as a consumer, you may choose between the two, telcos would probably want to offer both.

The telecom minster A Raja said that government will also auction Wimax services. The reserve price for these services has been set at 25 per cent of that of 3G. Initially, about three licences would be offered, which will be doubled later depending on the vacation of the spectrum by Defence.