Why 5 Bars on a Cell Phone is Bad

I am frequently asked by cell phone users who are experiencing cell phone reception & data connection problems.  Why if I have 5 full bars of coverage do my calls go to voicemail?  Why can't I access data on my phone or receive text messages?  It's not because you are standing very close to a cell phone tower or antenna and getting a strong signal as most would think.  It's because the cell phone network you are trying to use is congested.  Smartphones use ten times more data than cell phones that simply are used for making phone calls.  Yet, a typical cell phone tower can handle up to 500 simultaneous phone calls it can only handle 1/10 of the users for data traffic.  So if there are a lot of iPhone users around you signaling to the tower it is likely that AT&T cannot handle the traffic.  I am sad to say it is only going to get worse as more and more people start using smartphones that suck down the data.

My suggestion is pretty simple.  Use WiFi whenever possible because 3G and 4G is not going to live up to the marketing hype.  

Emergency Vehicles Need Cell Signal Boosters

Response times and emergency communication shouldn't not be compromised at the expense of poor cell coverage. Up until now, officers in Arizona have been living in an unconnected computer world taking handwritten notes during investigations and then driving to the nearest substation, often 80 or 100 miles away, to log into the computer systems. While in-vehicle computers and cellular modems are standard equipment for many law enforcement agencies across the U.S., making the department’s Mobile Data Computing Project work in Yavapai County, Arizona was a challenge due to weak cell signals provided by the carriers. The County covers 8,100 square miles, an area larger than several U.S. states, lying between suburban Phoenix and the South Rim of the Grand Canyon. The topography includes the Sonoran desert and mountains rising nearly 8,000 feet.  As the department researched the feasibility of implementing the upgrade, a field testing confirmed that the cellular signal in many areas of the county was too weak to allow in-vehicle modems to reliably connect with the department’s computer system.  Now their officers have the data connectivity resources in their vehicles.

The Yavapai Arizona Sheriff’s Office took it upon themselves to upgrade their data communications capabilities for more than 120 police cars installing cell phone booster systems made by Wilson Electronics. They didn't beg the carrier to upgrade their networks like so many agencies do.  To solve the problem the department installed Wilson boosters and antennas to detect and amplify faint cellular signals. The payoff has been clear and immediate enabling police officers to use on-board computers and cellular modems to access the department’s computer network and search for needed information or file reports directly from their patrol vehicles, even in remote areas of the county.

The officers recently went on a search and rescue operation in an area where the searching units had no cellular coverage according to their handheld devices, but with the air-cards in their vehicles, responding deputies had service through the Wilson booster and were able to instant message and stay in contact with the communications center.  The department also experienced another unexpected benefit shortening response times.

Wilson Electronics, Inc., a leader in the wireless communications industry for more than 40 years, designs and manufactures a wide variety of cell phone signal boosters, antennas, and related components that significantly improve cellular communication in mobile, indoor, and machine-to-machine (M2M) applications. All Wilson products are engineered, assembled, and tested in the company's U.S.-based headquarters. Wilson boosters fully comply with FCC regulations for cellular devices and are FCC type accepted and Industry Canada certificated. Wilson Electronics has developed and patented a variety of technologies for protecting cell sites by preventing network interference. For more information, visit weboost.com

Crowdsourcing Cell Phone Reception Maps Preview

Preview of AT&T, Verizon, T-Mobile & Sprint Dead Zones

Screen Shot of Our New Maps Hosted by Click2Map

Why Apple or Google Should Buy Pandora

Consumers Don't Want to Own Music Anymore

How much longer can iTunes maintain its leadership position as the middleman for content owners to consumers?  I think the device manufacturing giant needs to think very quickly about buying a service like Pandora.  What is holding them back from spending their $50 billion dollars in cash?  Do they think they can recreate a similar experience themselves?  Is Apple afraid of cannibalizing their business of music and programming downloads?  My sense it is likely because AT&T, Verizon, Sprint & T-Mobile don't have their networks in order to handle the additional data streaming on 4G, LTE, Wimax.  However, this could be a strategic move if the new iPods and Shuffles become Wifi enabled.  

Google on the other hand doesn't have a music play and Pandora will start being used more frequently in the car.  Google could quickly bring a lot of location based advertising inventory onto the market with Pandora's 50M+ users.  Apple and Google have both shown their interest in predictive analytics which is Pandora specialty in music. Pandora uses this predictive playlist to recommend other songs you might like to keep you connected. The predictive playlists are an incredible user experience and are starting to carry ads that are relevant to the music.  The Pandora experience on my Samsung TV and new G2 phone.  It won't be surprising to see that Google TV also has a streaming music option very soon.  The question is whether they build it or partner with someone like Pandora? 

Cricket Wireless Coverage Map

Cricket Wireless Coverage Map

Don’t overspend another second. Get the Cricket Dream 5G for $0 when you switch to Cricket.

Cricket Wireless is a prepaid wireless service provider in the United States. Here are some key features of Cricket Wireless:

Plans: Cricket Wireless offers a variety of prepaid cell phone plans to suit different needs. Their plans typically include unlimited talk, text, and data, with different data speed options and data allowances to choose from. They have both individual and family plans available.

Coverage: Cricket Wireless operates on the network infrastructure of AT&T, providing nationwide coverage across the United States. They leverage AT&T's network to offer reliable coverage in many areas, including both urban and rural regions.

No Contracts: Cricket Wireless operates on a no-contract basis, meaning you're not tied to any long-term commitments or agreements. This gives customers the flexibility to change plans or cancel service without penalties.

Data Speeds: Depending on the plan you choose, Cricket Wireless offers different data speeds. Their plans include options for 4G LTE speeds, which provide faster data connections for activities such as streaming videos or downloading files.

Data Usage: Cricket Wireless plans have a data allowance, and once you reach your allotted data amount, your data speeds may be temporarily reduced for the remainder of the billing cycle. However, Cricket Wireless also offers data add-ons that allow you to purchase additional high-speed data if needed.

Device Selection: Cricket Wireless offers a selection of smartphones for purchase, including budget-friendly options and popular flagship devices. They also support Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) programs, allowing customers to use their own compatible devices on the network.

Cricket International: Cricket Wireless provides international calling options and features. They have add-ons or separate plans for international calling and messaging, as well as options for international roaming in certain countries.

Customer Service: Cricket Wireless offers customer support through various channels, including online chat, phone support, and in-store assistance at Cricket Wireless retail locations.

It's worth noting that coverage maps and network performance may vary, so it's always advisable to check the coverage available in your specific area before choosing a wireless service provider.

If you are interested in Cricket Wireless services, you can visit their official website or contact their customer service for more information on their current plans, offerings, and available devices.

EVDO Advantages Over Satellite & WiFi

EVDO Advantages Over Satellite Internet & WiFi

1. Always on with seamless roaming assuming coverage
2. Fully portable
3. You are your own hotspot and not  relying on someone else's internet connection
4. Goes beyond the 300-ft range from a "hotspot"
5. Access corporate VPN (virtual private network) get a cellular signal via a secure, encrypted signal
6. Can provide service outside of cable-modem or DSL areas
7. Relative low cost with high capacity – allows rich web browsing and application usage.
8. VOIP compatible with Skype, Google Voice or Magic Jack

How Does EVDO Work

EVO stands for Evolution Data Optimized and works similarly to the way your cell phone operates in that it relies on signal from a wireless tower rather than a physical connection like a phone line or cable. An EVDO modem (often referred to as an "aircard") receives the signal and allows you to connect to the internet -it's as simple as that! EVDO modems come in as a 3G Router.  Most 3G EVDO service plan have a 5 gig cap but some do not have any data cap.

Why Use EVDO?

• Line of site issues
• Data latency 
• Can't get DSL or broadband at your home or office
• Can't get satellite broadband
• Gamers and traders people who want fast persistent connections.

Who uses EVDO?

There are countless reasons to use EVDO and we have helped customers get set up for a huge variety of applications! Below are just a few common ways people use EVDO:

Mobile applications: Cars, trucks, RV's, commercial service/fleet vehicles, shuttles, carpool/vanpool, transit (busses, trains, ferries), taxis/limos, private/commercial vessels Portable uses: Mobile work teams, trade shows, conferences, conventions, vacations, commute access, emergency response setup

Fixed-location customers: Backup to cable/DSL/T-1, dial-up alternative, satellite alternative

How does EVDO compare to other technologies?

The best aspect of EVDO (to most users) is the mobility it offers, but EVDO is also FAST! With a good signal, EVDO Rev A averages about 600-1400Kbps download with upload speeds averaging between
500-800Kbps. Here is how it stacks up to other common internet technologies:

• EVDO Rev A: 600Kbps - 1,400Kbps Down (with bursts to 3.1Mbps); 500Kbps-800Kbps Up (with bursts to 1.8Mbps)
• EVDO Rev 0: 400 - 1000Kbps Down (with bursts to 2.0 Mbps); 50 - 100Kbps Up (with bursts to 144Kbps)
• 1xRTT: 50Kbps - 100Kbps with bursts up to 144kbps Down/Up
• EDGE (2G): 50Kbps - 100Kbps Down/Up
• HSPA: 700-1700kbps Down; 500-1200kbps upload
• DSL: Varies based on provider. Average appoximately 1500Kbps Down; 128Kbps Up
• Cable: Varies based on provider. Average appoximately 1000-5000Kbps Down; 200-800Kbps Up
• Satellite: 512Kbps - 1500Kbps Down; 128 - 256Kbps Up
• Dial-Up: 56Kbps Down/Up

Steve Jobs: Android Fragmentation = Choice

I feel like the only person who is angry by the comments that Steve Jobs made about Android as a fragmented operating system that will only confuse consumers and operators.  The iPhone is a controlled environment and resembles the old "enterprise software" days of the late nineties where big companies were making bundles of money.  Android resembles open-source and new entrepreneurs where everything is public and the best products ultimately win.  If the iPhone continues to control applications and cater to the corporate big media publishers and carriers this will ultimately be their demise.  Yes, the iPhone form factor is beautiful but HTC and other handset makers are making good looking phones as well.   The iPhone has a closed device is going to hurt them in the long run and this will likely come in the form of their lack of scale and advertising infrastructure to sell location-based advertising.

Clearly, Steve Jobs feels threatened by the whole Google Android movement and there is a clash of cultures.  Google is clearly disrupting an industry that is dominated by the carriers who rape consumers and handset makers who want controlled obsolescence.  AT&T and Verizon should feel threatened as well even though they are proliferating the spread of Android and have no idea what is about to hit them.  It's like feeding your enemy who is ultimately going to disrupt and destroy your monopoly business.  Go Google.

Verizon 3G Network Extender Questions?

Click Femtocell to Search Availability by Zip Code

Verizon Wireless has updated its latest femtocell device with the launch of a 3G Network Extender replacing its previously offered Network Extender. The Samsung Electronics device will boost coverage in buildings and homes where a customer might have poor cellular coverage due to walls or challenging topography.  Similar to other carrier femotcell products, the 3G Network Extender relies on a customer’s broadband connection to backhaul voice and data traffic.  Six devices can access the femtocell, and that there would be no special rate plans or additional monthly fees for the device beyond the one-time charge of $250.

It also brings up the question why are they not simply using a Wifi network to rout data traffic?  Also, will this device work alongside a normal FIOS Wifi router?  Why not simply embed the femtocell technology into your FIOS router or FIOS DVR?

Even though Verizon claims they cover 98% of the population they still sell hundreds of thousands of these devices.  These poor cell reception locations are also known as dead zones even though the carrier touts they cover 98% of the population.  Verizon must assume that we all live outdoors and their cell phone signals can penetrate walls and trees.  

Steve Jobs Rant - Android = Fragmented vs. iPhone = Integrated

Argument #1 - We think the open vs closed is just a smokescreen to try and hide the real issue, which is: What's best for the customer? Fragmented vs. integrated. We think Android is very very fragmented and becoming more fragmented by the day.  Response - Is being on more platforms in more places bad?  Apple is going to have a tiny market share compared to Android long term.  This will thrust their mobile location-based advertising and enable them to charge $0 for apps.

Argument #2 - Android OEMs install proprietary user-interfaces to differentiate themselves from the commodity Android experience. The user is left to figure it all out. Compare this with iPhone where every handset works the same.  Response - AT&T is a horrible user experience so maybe having the handset experts develop on the platform might solve some of the reception issues.

Argument #3 - Open systems don't always win. Response - Maybe in the short run but not in the long term.  Making more money from fewer people is a bad idea.  Making less money from more people is a better strategy.   I would rather see Google take $50 per handset than Apple making $600 per handset.

T-Mobile Wifi Phone Calls on Android Phones

T-Mobile has announced Wi-Fi Calling technology with the upcoming availability of built-in Wi-Fi Calling solutions planned for a wide selection of Android powered smartphones, including the recently announced new T-Mobile myTouch and Motorola DEFY with MOTOBLUR. All have the Android 2.2 operating system named Froyo. Hopefully, this Smart Wifi app will become available on future G2 updates.

Kineto offers the wireless industry's only combined Wi-Fi-based Smart Offload solution. Kineto’s Wi-Fi-based Smart Offload application enables mobile phone users to turn any standard Wi-Fi access point into a seamless extension of the T-Mobile network, allowing subscribers to receive all their mobile services when connected via Wi-Fi. This application helps solve the Capacity Crunch. Resolves the 3G Indoor Coverage Challenge. Addresses the perceived mobile VoIP threat Helps improve battery performance by enabling handsets to transmit at lower power when attached to a Wi-Fi access point, and thereby increase handsets' talk and standby times.

Wi-Fi Calling for Android is built upon the same technology as UMA, but is a different implementation from T-Mobile's past offerings. T-Mobile’s current Wi-Fi Calling solution which operates on BlackBerry smartphones, for instance, seamlessly hands off calls from T-Mobile’s network to Wi-Fi networks, Wi-Fi Calling for Android does not. T-Mobile Wi-Fi Calling for Android increases coverage and but unfortunately still uses voice minutes on your plan.

Skype on Android Phones is Finally Here

Skype has finally released their an application for the Android phone enabling voice calls over VoIP.  50% of homes and businesses do not have seamless wireless voice coverage for quality conversations while Wifi and broadband is growing rapidly.  Skype is a great alternate solution to fixing coverage inside a home or office building where a cell phone signal is not present.  Its also a great solution while you are traveling overseas and want to avoid the hefty roaming rates that carriers charge while using other networks.

Try pulling your SIM card out of your smart-phone for a few days and just use Wifi services.  Using Skype and Google Voice over Wifi works pretty good and you are less likely to drop calls.  Who knows you just might find yourself reducing your data and voice plan down to the minimal amount and save yourself lots of money each month. 

Skype has released a client for Android mobile handsets, running Android OS version 2.1 or higher. With Skype for Android, smartphone users globally can now experience the benefit of Skype while on go using either a Wifi or mobile data connection. Market or consumers can visit https://www.skype.com to find out more details about how to get the application.

Skype for Android enables users to:

· Make free Skype-to-Skype calls over Wi-Fi or mobile data connection (GPRS, EDGE, 3G)* to other Skype users anywhere in the world using Skype’s SILK codec for CD-like audio quality.

· Make low rate Skype Out calls to landline or mobile phones

· Send and receive instant messages to one or a group of friends on Skype

· Synchronize contacts between Skype and the native address book and after synchronization place Skype calls directly from the native address book.

· See when Skype contacts are online and available to call or chat

· Import names and numbers to the Skype application from the native address book

· Receive calls on their Skype online number

Refund Checks for Verizon Customers

Verizon is paying between an estimated $30-$90 million in refunds to customers who were improperly charged for inadvertent Web data access over the past several years. 15 million customers would receive credits or refund checks that would generally range from $2 to $6 on their October or November bills. Existing customers will get credits, while former customers will receive refund checks.

The refunds are the result of an investigation into Verizon by the FCC. For the past three years, the regulatory body received complaints from customers, who did not have a data plan, accusing Verizon of data charges as the result of pressing a button on their phones.