Now it may not seem like a “wow” since introduction of the new WiFi iTunes store in August. In Feb 26, 2006 I wrote a small piece for my techscurry blog. The following is the original unchanged article:
There are an increasing number of WiFi networks and devices in consumers’ hands, not limited to laptops or pdas. New cameras, mp3 players and VoIP phones use this technology to connect to the web. While it doesn’t take a genius to figure that out, what I am about to propose will take some thinking and compromise. Right now, the only way to get media content to or from a mobile device (non computer) is through a mobile phone carrier. Suppose you’d like to download a song you just heard, make a call through your IP portable phone, or send a picture to one of your friends from your new WiFi equipt camera; you’d need a computer to work as a hub to transfer it there. The answer to bypassing this is using the current public WiFi networks. Since most are not free and charge to get online, you might need an account, password and credit card. So to be able to get media content, a special open network should be created. This would let you use the network just for that specific transaction. All you need is an affiliate-like system (connect, buy and the WiFi provide gets a commission).
For instance, if you’re on your iPod and want a song while in a Starbucks, you might just go to the mobile iTunes Music Store through T-Mobile’s WiFi network to get your fix. There would be a special gateway for participating products in the WiFi network. In this case, T-Mobile might be an affiliate for Apple’s iTunes, Kodak’s Easy Share Gallery or even Skype; therefore obtaining a commission from the transaction done through their network. There must be a preset code that would work as a password and/or user name; which would seamlessly be set up every time you sync your device with the computer. To enable your shopping capabilities you must have existing account with the content company and not the WiFi provider.
A new open standard must implemented to let anyone offer his or her products through this new type of affiliate program. Easy implementation with current WiFi networks should be easy. It must not be limited to private networks or business. Anyone can participate and get money from their current WiFi setups. It’s easy money for the affiliate because a couple of megabytes from their bandwidth never killed anyone, and convenient for the content provider because it’s cheaper and easier than using cellular networks.
The proposition still applies: to create an open standard to allow devices to bypass connection login and obtain content. The Wifi provider would get a cut.
Post a Comment