4G: A foundation for the country's development

Accharas Ouysinprasert

On that day, the first 4G mobile network based on WiMAX technology was launched in the US city of Baltimore. While WiMAX networks have been commercially available elsewhere - most notably Korea - adoption of the 4G wireless broadband by the world's biggest market will boost uptake elsewhere, including Thailand.

As citizens of Baltimore are now experiencing, WiMAX is like broadband in the sky - true high-speed wireless broadband. Devices also are appearing in the market, including WiMAX-equipped laptops and handhelds. Liberated from the confines of WiFi hotspots and other low-bandwidth wireless connections, Baltimore's citizens are the first to live in a hotspot the size of a city.

Significant opportunities will flow from the growth of 4G. Mass-market consumer uptake is the most obvious scenario, bringing with it potential for network operators and device vendors. Potential also exists in creating industry-specific solutions - breaking free from the constraints of high cost and low bandwidth to truly mobilise a workforce or re-engineer operations for greater efficiencies. For example, Singaporean operator QMAX today operates a seaward-facing commercial mobile WiMAX network for the maritime industry. In the consumer space, in-car solutions using WiMAX are under development in northern Asia. WiMAX opens the way for innovative new services and business models.

A hallmark of the digital age is that we tend to be enchanted by technology itself. More important is what that technology can do for us. In the case of WiMAX, we have the Internet as it was meant to be - open, fast and mobile. Its applicability to the needs of mature markets such as the United States and Korea is clear. No less compelling is its relevance to the needs of developing economies such as ours. WiMAX can sustain the breakneck growth of Thailand's urban hubs, while also meeting the needs of rural citizens who all-too-often are excluded from the benefits of the digital age. Specific areas of opportunity include improving Thai business innovation and competitiveness; the quality and reach of education and healthcare; and the ability of Thai people to acquire 21st century digital skills.

A new dawn is coming, bringing with it opportunity for citizens from all walks of life. We have cause to be excited.

Note: Accharas Ouysinprasert is country manager of Intel Thailand, his sponsibilities include management of sales of all Intel products and revenue of Intel Microelectronics (Thailand), as well as the overseeing of all marketing activities in Thailand.