While people obsess over the bandwidth that will be available in 4G networks like WiMax and LTE (and 100Mbps+ is pretty incredible), 4G is about much more than just speed. Just as powerful is the interconnection of different network types including fixed networks, WPANs and WANs (Bluetooth, WiFi) and sensor networks like Zigbee. This wireless "cloud" will enable a whole new level of interconnection among people and things. An example of a company operating in the connecting "things" space is UgMO (http://ugmo.com/) , a PA-based company that provides wirelessly connected ground sensors for monitoring the health of turf on athletic fields. The sensors can rely info back to an IP network using Zigbee.
Nokia has agreed to incorporate eco-sensors on an experimental handset (http://www.nokia.com/corporate-responsibility/environment/sustainable-products/eco-sensor-concept) that can mesaure air quality and pollution. Readings from individuals can then be fed into a larger map for research purposes (Carnegia Mellon is working on this). All of these applications will be further enabled by the wireless cloud coming as part of 4G.
Nokia has agreed to incorporate eco-sensors on an experimental handset (http://www.nokia.com/corporate-responsibility/environment/sustainable-products/eco-sensor-concept) that can mesaure air quality and pollution. Readings from individuals can then be fed into a larger map for research purposes (Carnegia Mellon is working on this). All of these applications will be further enabled by the wireless cloud coming as part of 4G.
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