RIM Re-Joins the Wi-Fi Calling Party

For some unspoken reason, RIM had removed the Wi-Fi Calling functionality, possibly a
symptom of the firm’s general malaise. But its reintroduction as part of the new OS suggests strongly that its removal did not go unnoticed.

Read the rest of the post I wrote for IP Telephony.

Android gobbling up market share

Here's an abosolutely staggering chart based on data from Gartner Research released in November 2010.

The chart shows the year over year growth of the smartphone market, which nearly doubled (96%).  By itself, that is truly impressive.  But more astounding is the growth of Android market share, coming from 3% to 25% in just one year.

In a market that is doubling every year, Android was able to grow significantly faster than all other platforms.

Apple basically held it's own, growing at the same rate as the market (roughly double).  Of course the real tragities are the sub-market growth of RIM and MSFT.

With Android devices now covering the high-end, mid-tier and entry-level market segments, it's growth potential looks unstoppable.

Guest Blogger Shannon Lucas of T-Mobile on Differences Between MVS & Wi-Fi Calling

Recently, I've received a lot of questions from customers about the difference between RIM's new MVS 5.0 with Wi-Fi Calling (based on SIP) and T-Mobile's Wi-Fi Calling (based on UMA/GAN). There are some pretty important differentiators between these two services.

I see them as complementary solutions that address different user profiles. Customers who are mostly campus-based can take advantage of MVS with SIP while they are in the office or connected to their enterprise network through a VPN.

T-Mobile's Wi-Fi Calling allows customers to extend their PBX extension to their mobile phone over Wi-Fi and provides seamless mid-call transitions between the cellular and Wi-Fi networks. The T-Mobile solution also allows you to use MVS over Wi-Fi in public locations without having to have that VPN back to the corporate network.

T-Mobile launched Wi-Fi Calling four years ago, and the technology has had a lot of time to mature in the market place. It can also be used without MVS to provide coverage and the ability to make calls for free while on Wi-Fi. It's also simple to set up and use.

Both solutions offer benefits to enterprise users, but T-Mobile's Wi-Fi Calling provides a level of freedom and free calling for enterprise customers even when not connected to the VPN.

RIM, MVS and UMA

This is the week of RIM's big Wireless Enterprise Symposium (WES) event in Orlando. Hence the flurry of announcements related to new RIM devices, the new RIM 6.0 OS, and the addition of Wi-Fi calling to the MVS product.

Considering T-Mobile offers a UMA-based 'Wi-Fi Calling' service and offers MVS with 'Wi-Fi calling', there may be some confusion in the market. Is MVS competitive or complementary with UMA? The short answer:

They are complementary solutions.

UMA is the delivery of mobile services over Wi-Fi. With UMA-enabled BlackBerries (in this case), subscribers use their mobile services the same over Wi-Fi as over the GSM/cellular network. UMA offers two specific benefits to the subscriber: improved mobile coverage via Wi-Fi; and lower-cost calling, primarily due to T-Mobile's 'unlimited Wi-Fi Calling' offer for enterprises. We like to say that UMA makes the mobile phone "work better and cost less".

MVS addresses a different problem. The new Wi-Fi calling feature in MVS extends a subscriber's fixed-line PBX extension to their BlackBerry. Personally this isn't something I would want. If I really want someone to get ahold of me, I give out my mobile number. If it's not urgent, I give out my desk phone. But there may be subscribers (or enterprises) that want to push the fixed line onto a BlackBerry. More importantly, I think there are enterprises interested in managing how employees use their mobile phones and how accessable they are on their fixed lines. But I digress...

The point is that both MVS and UMA offer an overlapping benefit: lower cost calling. With UMA, it takes the form of mobile calls over Wi-Fi not using the bucket of minutes assigned to the enterprise. With MVS, it comes by not using the mobile network (and therefore the mobile operator's billing system) and routing calls through the enterprise PBX (and over negotiated fixed line contracts).

Therefore, it is possible to deploy MVS (ie put a PBX extension on a BlackBerry) with or without UMA. And conversely, it's possible to have a UMA-enabled BlackBerry without the MVS client. Ergo - it is also possible to have a BlackBerry with MVS *and* UMA.

For IT managers, what's better? Well, it comes down to what problem is being solved. UMA offers two benefits: lower cost mobile calls and better cellular coverage.

MVS offers at least two benefits: lower cost calls through by routing Wi-Fi calls through the PBX, better management/control of mobile calling and the ability to put a fixed line on the mobile phone.

For mobile operators, it's clear that UMA retains control of the call through the mobile network, where MVS takes Wi-Fi calls off the mobile network and into the fixed-line PBX.

To conclude, MVS and UMA are not competitive, they are complementary technologies, solving different problems for the enterprise.

Growth of Mobile traffic by OS

This week Gizmodo published the latest data from Admob. [Ed note: It seems that Admod has become the de facto tracker for mobile data]. The chart, from Admob, is very telling:

First, this is traffic in the US. So the iPhone chart is particularly impressive because it's one device on one operator's network. Look out when the iPhone goes CDMA...

Second, I think the spike in Android tracks tothe launch of the Droid phone on Verizon in Q4 2009. Certainly growth in Android traffic was trending up nicely through the first three quarters of 2009, based primarily on the MyTouch from T-Mobile, but there is a definite acceleration of traffic in Q4.

Third, I think it's a bit depressing to see the RIM, webOS and WinMo numbers. These are all good products/technologies, but I think it highlights the emerging split between 'smartphone' and 'web phone'.

Finally, while this is an absolute market share chart, it doesn't capture the overall market growth in traffic. At what rate are these number accelerating? AT&T said traffic on their network was up 5,000% over the last three years. While Android is gaining absolute market share, data traffic in general is skyrocketing and will certainly become an issue for every mobile operator.

A UMA-Enabled iPhone?!

Someone is making a compelling case for a UMA-enabled iPhone, and, surprisingly, it’s not me.

In a recent article in PC World, IT Manager Michael Scalisi writes that he likes the new iPhone 3GS; Apple did a good job. However, it doesn’t quite cut it for business users.

"...However, the lack of a keyboard, UMA and better battery features allows the competition an edge with business users.”

Michael proposes the 3GS ‘B’ – another version of the much-loved iPhone. The B stands for business. That, he says, is what will cut into RIM’s ‘remaining share of the smartphone pie.” And, it’s a good business decision for Apple.

Michael makes a compelling case. It’s what I’ve been dreaming of for quite some time.

The argument is simple and a win-win for Apple and business users. Michael sums it up:

“A business model iPhone with a full QWERTY keyboard, UMA and a longer battery life would eliminate some of the last reasons for BlackBerry users to abstain from switching to an iPhone.”

Free UMA Service For Enterprises

As reported by Xchange magazine just a few minutes ago, T-Mobile is making some significant changes to its enterprise service offer.

First, enterprises with 100 or more lines of service from T-Mobile can receive free nationwide Wi-Fi calling with UMA-enabled Blackberries. No more $10/month for service.

In addition, T-Mobile is adding Research In Motion’s MVS product to its portfolio. MVS extends the PBX desk phone to Blackberries.

This is a significant step towards FMS in the enterprise. Employees can get a UMA-enabled Blackberry and receive free unlimited calling in North America, along with email service and potentially MVS. Sit at your desk, roam the halls, work from home, it's free calling when attached to Wi-Fi. Very compelling.

I'm sure the Yankee Group, who recently published a story about their move to enteprise UMA, is happy to hear about this development.

It looks like Enteprise UMA is picking up.

Rumored Blackberry Devices In The Works

Today, the BoyGenius reported on a few new RIM BlackBerry products that may be in the works. It seems that RIM continues to be bullish on UMA, along with Wi-Fi. There is even rumor of a version of the Bold with UMA.

There is always more to look forward to with RIM! The company has provided plenty of fodder for our news machine in the past.

UMA Today Q&A: RIM on its strategic vision for Wi-Fi and UMA

RIM has maintained a long-term commitment to UMA technology and today, and supports UMA and WiFi in a wide range of industry-leading products for both consumers and business users. Even when Wi-Fi was considered by some to be a threat to the mobile operator, RIM saw an opportunity to focus on offerings that benefit both end users and wireless carriers. Below is an excerpt of a recent interview in UMA Today Magazine with Mike McAndrews, RIM’s VP of product marketing, who shares his insights on how Wi-Fi and UMA fit into the company’s strategic vision for the future…

UMA Today: Have operators’ opinions towards Wi-Fi changed?

McAndrews: I’ve seen a definite trend in the last few years towards Wi-Fi adoption by many wireless carriers around the world. This trend is fueled by 3 things:
1) Wi-Fi popularity with end users
2) Increasing smartphone functionality, which leads to greater wireless data usage
3) Many carriers now see Wi-Fi as an enabler to their overall strategy. As a result, Wi-Fi is being increasingly requested by wireless carriers in new BlackBerry smartphones…

Some of our carriers have created compelling voice service plans built around UMA. Other carriers have focused on bundling convenient hotspot access as part of a BlackBerry service plan.

UMA Today: How does UMA technology fit into RIM’s strategy?

McAndrews: UMA is a natural extension of what we’ve been doing with Wi-Fi. While Wi-Fi support makes it possible for customers to access their BlackBerry data, the addition of UMA support gives customers access to voice calling over Wi-Fi as well.

UMA is a technology that benefits both mobile operators and end users alike, and we’re glad to support it. To date, we’ve seen enthusiastic support for UMA from some of our carrier partners, including Rogers Wireless, T-Mobile US and Orange.

UMA Today: What is RIM’s outlook for Wi-Fi and UMA in handsets in the future?

McAndrews: Wi-Fi is an important part of our product roadmap – its proven to be a technology that benefits both our carrier partners and end users. Wi-Fi is popular with both business users and consumers. While Wi-Fi cannot replace the wide area coverage provided by a mobile network, it is becoming more commonplace….

RIM’s Wi-Fi architecture is designed to allow the handset to connect to the best network available – either the mobile network or Wi-Fi – with no user intervention required…This seamless connectivity is an important element of making Wi-Fi truly easy to use.

RIM remains committed to UMA, and there are certainly more products on the horizon.


To read UMA Today’s full interview with RIM’s McAndrews, click here.

RIM's 8900 coming to T-Mobile soon

The latest UMA-enabled RIM, the 8900, has been getting rave reviews in the press:

• Engadget
• CNET
• Electronista
• Crackberry…

The rumor is that the phone will be available at T-Mobile shortly, perhaps as early as next week. So all of you text/email refuges from iPhone, get ready for a very cool new Blackberry.

[Ed. Note: The phone went on sale at T-Mobile Feb 12 and promptly sold out]

UMA Device Takes Top Ranking (sort of)

RCR Wireless regularly publishes a list of the most “popular” handsets in the US.

Top handset for the month of November…

The Blackberry Curve

Wow, a UMA-enabled device is the most popular device in the US. Well, only the T-Mobile version of the Curve is UMA-enabled, but still, I’m sure T-Mobile sells a LOT of them.

Actually, congratulations to RIM for holding 3 of the top five spots in the ranking.

Rumor Mill: Blackberry Javelin

Engadget today offered a look at the new Blackberry Javelin, suggesting it is a replacement for the Curve. It also looks like RIM is trying to beat out Samsung for the most UMA-enabled handsets. The future looks bright.

Blackberry 'Kickstart' Coming to Rogers

Several rumor sources today regarding a new clam-shell RIM Blackberry called the 'Kickstart'. According to Boy Genius, the Kickstart will appear at Rogers with support for their UMA service. RIM continues to be bullish on UMA.

Rogers Launches Pearl 8120

Rogers, the latest UMA-based dual-mode service provider, today launched the RIM Pearl 8120 handset in their portfolio. The UMA Pearl is currently available from Orange and T-Mobile as well. It's good to see Rogers expanding their handset portfolio.

RIM Redux

Following up from yesterday's post, I have now listened to all of Jim Balsillie’s comments during his presentation at RIM’s Capital Markets Day, May 12, 2008, I wanted to offer up some of his quotes.

I’ve tried not to take these comments too far out of context, but basically Mr. Balsillie is bullish on UMA. About 29 minutes into the presentation (slide 24), he talks of their UMA-enabled products:

“The Wi-Fi UMA is going remarkably well.”
“I’m hard pressed to not see this as inevitable, for most if not everyone.”
“This is happening and it’s happening fast”.

In his Q&A section (slide 33), a gentleman from Integral Capital Partners asks:

“Can you comment on the carrier’s adoption, or in some cases, the lack there of, of the UMA option?”

Mr. Balsillie: “I think it’s a fair comment. I think a lot of carriers were keen on it, some were less keen on it. It’s hard to find a carrier that isn’t keen on it now. Some saw it as a threat, I saw it as an enabler, an inevitability. In a sense, it’s hard to find a carrier that isn’t excited about it now. … I think it’s just so compelling and so inevitable. It’s not going to take out the cell phone. It’s a complement.”

I couldn’t agree more.

RIM is BOLD with UMA

RIM’s presentation during their Capital Markets day (May 12, 2008) talked a bit about UMA. In the slide below, they indicate the new Bold device is part of their UMA portfolio. Sounds good to me.

Wi-Fi Battery Life: UMA Wins Again

Last month PC Magazine reviewed the RIM Blackberry 8820. The review was quite positive, but one thing which really jumped out at me was this paragraph (second to last in the article):

One area where the 8820 really excels is in endurance; it beats the Curve 8320, although the 8320's performance isn't shabby. On a cellular talk time rundown test, the 8820 lasted 11 hours and 29 minutes with the Wi-Fi and Bluetooth radios turned off. Over UMA and Wi-Fi, the phone ran for almost 14 hours on the same test. If you're tired of your cell phone's short battery life, this device should be on your short list.

Or as they state in the article:

• Continuous talk time (cellular): 11 hours 29 minutes
• Continuous talk time (Wi-Fi): 13 hours 55 minutes

An all too common complain about dual mode phones is that Wi-Fi = poor battery life. Yet in PC Magazine’s own test, talking over Wi-Fi/UMA resulted in a 20% improvement in talk time/performance.

The evidence continues to mount that those issues are a thing of the past. Companies that are serious about Wi-Fi in devices are optimizing the performance to meet and many times exceed the performance of GSM only.

Fierce Names Top 5 'Converged' Devices

FierceWireless released their list of top ‘converged’ devices. By converged I think they meant dual-mode devices, as each of the five devices on the list had Wi-Fi.

The list was:

1. BlackBerry 8820
2. BlackBerry 8320
3. HTC Mogul
4. HTC Tilt 8925
5. iPhone

Interestingly, two of the five are UMA-enabled. Given HTC is rumored to be bringing out UMA-enabled devices shortly, there’s a chance that next year’s list will be 4 out of 5 UMA-enabled.

As for the iPhone supporting UMA, it has been rumored in the past. But UMA in handsets is typically driven by operator requirements. Orange and Rogers both support dual-mode UMA service. Orange and Rogers also both sell the iPhone. Interesting…

PS – credit where credit is due: The image is from Gizmodo. I think choosing Mr. ROGERS to hold the iPhone is brilliant.

PPS – according to Wikipedia, the Mr. Rogers show was first developed in Toronto for CBC, making the reference doubly brilliant.

Internet Offload and UMA

“Internet Offload” is the ability for a dual-mode phone to connect directly to the internet through the Wi-Fi radio. The phone which comes to most people’s mind is the iPhone, but Wi-Fi enabled HTC and Nokia E/N series support this feature too.

When the iPhone enters a Wi-Fi environment, the GSM radio stays on (for circuit voice and mobile packet data services), and the Wi-Fi radio can be used for accessing internet services like Google Maps directly.

For some reason, the market seems to think that a dual-mode phone can support either UMA or Internet Offload, but not both simultaneously.

This is not true!

Internet Offload and UMA are fully compatible functions of a dual-mode phone.

In fact the strongest example is the family of UMA-enabled Blackberries (8820, Curve/8320, Pearl/8120) which all support UMA and Internet Offload concurrently.

Here’s how it works:

When a UMA-enabled Blackberry enters Wi-Fi, the UMA tunnel is established. The UMA tunnel is used to transport services which reside in the mobile core network to the phone. The easiest example is voice services. But any data application which is delivered from the mobile core is accessed through the UMA tunnel, applications like MMS or any stream media services offered from the network (MobiTV,…)

A key advantage of using the UMA tunnel for service delivery is mobility. Any application or service which takes advantage of the UMA tunnel maintains session continuity between the Wi-Fi network and the outdoor macro network.

But it’s the way UMA-enabled Blackberries also support Internet Offload which is most interesting. When the phone tries to access web based services like Google Maps, the traffic is routed directly to the Wi-Fi access layer and out to the internet. No going through the UMA tunnel, no burdening the mobile core with non-revenue generating internet traffic. Note this is also how the Blackberry accesses mail services when in Wi-Fi, directly over the internet.

The trick is that the Blackberry maintains a basic router function in the handset. For application which are ‘hosted’ (circuit voice, SMS, MMS,…), the traffic is routed through the UMA tunnel and to the mobile core. For browser based applications, the traffic is routed directly to the internet.

Note there is no 'seamless mobility' for services routed via Internet Offload directly over Wi-Fi. When the phone moves outside of Wi-Fi coverage, the session ends. The session can be restarted over the macro RAN, but there will be a drop in service.

Why is Internet Offload + UMA important?

First, it’s important to clear up the misunderstanding in the industry. Early UMA phones didn’t support the Internet Offload feature because operators specified they wanted UMA-enabled dual-mode phones to work ‘exactly the same’ in Wi-Fi as in GSM. Therefore, all the packet traffic was to be routed via the UMA tunnel to the mobile core when on Wi-Fi, because all packet traffic is routed to the mobile core when on GSM. [It’s in this way that UMA is really a RAN technology, making Wi-Fi an access radio for mobile services.]

With dual-mode phones supporting Internet Offload on the market, operators are again saying they want UMA-enabled phones to operate ‘exactly the same’. But now this means adding support for Internet Offload concurrently with UMA by routing some traffic over the UMA tunnel and other traffic directly to the internet.

Second, support of Internet Offload is a critical component of making the mobile phone an integral member of the ‘connected home.’ There is a movement underway to bring household electronics together into a cohesive fabric. But a mobile phone without Internet Offload capabilities* will be excluded from supporting local connections in the home. Thus the phone will continue to be outside the ‘connected home’ vision.

By highlighting UMA and Internet Offload support concurrently in the same device, UMA devices can now easily fit into the vision of the ‘connected home’.

Now Nokia N series handsets can support UMA along with the existing Internet Offload capabilities. In fact, the Nokia N95 was one of the first handsets to demonstrate support for DLNA, a ‘connected home’ protocol standard.

[* - There are two ways to make the handset a member of the 'connected home'. First is to have a dual-mode Wi-Fi enabled handset with Internet Offload capabilities. The second, pioneered by the Femto Forum, is to proxy a standard 3G handset into the connected home network via a femtocell.]

T-Mo gets the 8820... Finally

The Blackberry 8820, announced about 6 mos ago for AT&T, has finally been released for T-Mobile's HotSpot @Home service. All we can say is: FINALLY!

And in the category of 'what have you done for me lately', we ask "When do we get the UMA-enabled Pearl?"