Life Delights

Even though the mobile industry is considered to be the least affected by recession, plans for 3G and 4G investments have received a setback. The Australian has reported a much gloomier situation than believed so far. According to the paper, companies like Orange and T-Mobile are planning to delay their investments in 4G development. Moreover, the impending 3G internet upgrades are also likely to take a hit.

The report goes on to say that due to lesser profits, companies want to reduce their capital expenditure. This contradicts the recent statement coming out of the Mobile World Congress in Barcelona that investment will not be slowed down in the mobile industry. At the GSMA Leadership Summit, it was even declared that mobile broadband could help improve global economic conditions through massive investments.

There is no doubt that the mobile broadband segment had so far been providing growth to mobile operators facing stagnant voice revenues, but there is question mark over whether it can continue to do so in the current situation.

Before the economic conditions went haywire, huge investments were expected to take place for network upgrades and faster mobile broadband services. But now it seems the wait for the consumers just got longer and they will have to be content with the existing broadband infrastructure. It is difficult for anyone to set a date for economic revival, but until that happens, it seems most companies will be in a wait and watch mode.

Universal serial port (USB) devices have grown to be extremely popular, mainly because of their plug-and-play compatibility with various gadgets such as computers (desktops and laptops) and some entertainment systems. These USB gadgets are available in the form of mp3 players, extended memory storage, and most commonly as a USB dongle.

What exactly is a USB dongle? A USB dongle is an odd name coined for a device that provides mobile internet through 3g technology. This device is plugged on a laptop so that the user can connect to the internet without the need of a Wi-Fi hotspot.

The popularity of the USB dongle has grown rapidly in just the last few months, mainly because it makes it much easier for people to connect to the internet. People live a fast-paced life these days, and every second counts especially when it comes to business. Traveling eats up a lot of time when it comes to business and commerce, hence it is important for people to stay updated even while on the road.

Through the internet connection provided by a USB dongle, you can now conduct your business anytime anywhere, and not risk losing profits because you are traveling. A lot of internet providers are now offering USB dongles as part of their internet packages, a very comprehensive list can be found at Mobile Broadband Genie.

If like the rest of us you’re looking how you can cut costs now the credit crunch is hitting our pockets, then a new mobile VoIP app from one of the mobile VoIP operators such as Truphone, JahJah or Fring could be the answer. Many offices around the country have already made the switch to Voice over IP to take advantage of a dramatically cheaper way to make phone calls. Now the technology has been developed so you can take advantage of VoIP through your cell phone. Not only is this much more convenient than using a landline but it also has the potential to save your business a huge amount of money. Mobile phone bills represent a significant cost for most businesses especially when the nature of that business involves calling overseas.

One issue with mobile VoIP in recent times has been a lack of clear sound or problem with latency where a noticeable gap in the sound was audible when speaking to someone. However with the introduction of better audio codec’s these problems seem all but gone. Then there was the problem with the mobile VoIP client being very difficult to use with a certain degree of technical know how needed in order to be able to make it function correctly. Finally there was also an issue with what mobile handsets worked with the mobile VoIP software. All these draw backs combined made mobile VoIP quite an unappealing prospect.

It certainly seems like those days are well and truly a thing of yesterday with mobile VoIP clients such as Fring and JahJah now operating with a huge array of popular mobile phones, including the iPhone and the BlackBerry - the obligatory mobile device in business. As well as this they are easy to install, working seamlessly with your existing address book. For these reasons there is little excuse not to have a mobile VoIP client installed on your mobile phone not least because they are free to download and install. I have certainly made huge savings on making international phone calls

GPS or Global Positioning Systems are computer systems that use satellites in orbit around the globe to provide exact longitudinal and latitudinal position of the user. GPS units were originally designed by the Department of Defense for military purposes and are now used on the consumer level for day to day navigation. Some GPS units sell for less than $100.00 and as long as you have one and have a clear sight of the sky you will never be lost again. In fact most GPS receivers can pinpoint your location on the globe within about 50 feet. GPS units vary in price based on their quality and capabilities, so when shopping for one it is important to know what you are planning to use it for.

GPS systems are mostly used by consumers for two purposes, positioning and navigation. GPS units are placed on boats so boaters can have an idea of where they are in comparison to the shoreline. In cars they are more often equipped to provide directions to the driver from two different points. Some of the more expensive models come equipped with voice capabilities so that drivers don’t even have to take their eyes off the road. Many handheld models are sold to outdoor enthusiasts for camping, hunting and hiking. These handheld models also range in price based on their capabilities and if the display comes in color or not.

Most GPS units will also provide you with some standard and useful information…..

An Odometer (Distance you have traveled)
Time you have been traveling
A Speedometer (How fast you are currently traveling)
Average speed for the journey
A map of you trail so far
E.T.A (Estimated time of arrival)

GPS units use four satellites orbiting the globe to triangulate your position on earth and can do so with extreme accuracy. If you are constantly lost behind the wheel or spend a lot of time in the outdoors purchasing a GPS unit might be the right move for you.

Find out more about GPS at http://gps-go.info.