In the last year, interest in phones that combine cellular and VoIP using WLAN technology has grown at a fevered pitch, according to consumer surveys by In-Stat -- A large percentage, 84.6%, of respondents in a new survey were at least somewhat interested in the prospect of using a VoWLAN/Cellular phone, and exactly half of these respondents were very interested or extremely interested in the prospects of such a phone. The survey uncovered the following key points: Better in-building coverage and the prospect of being able to make unlimited local calls while at home had the biggest importance. PBX-type features and the need to only carry one phone at work, home, or elsewhere received very positive responses, but nowhere as high as free local calling at home or better in-building coverage. The survey gives some credence to the ability of cellular carriers to potentially further displace wire-line carriers.
The satellite communications industry is experiencing a transformative moment. What was once the exclusive domain of government agencies and deep-pocketed corporations is rapidly becoming accessible to everyone. This democratization of space-based connectivity represents a significant technological achievement and a fundamental shift in our understanding of global communications infrastructure. The dramatic acceleration in satellite system deployment tells a compelling story. Satellite Broadband Market Development With over 160 launches recorded by August 2025 alone, we're witnessing an unprecedented build-out of orbital infrastructure. This surge is driven by three converging factors: Plummeting launch costs through reusable rocket technology, the miniaturization of satellites enabling bulk launches, and intensifying commercial competition among private companies and nations alike. The result is a space ecosystem that looks radically different from even a decade ago, with approxi...