CEDAR KNOLLS, N.J.-Analyst firm Probe Group believes Bluetooth technology might drive wireless Internet revenues, but remains cautious on its outlook.
Analyst David Chamberlain expects one of three uptake scenarios to play out: the “critical mass” scenario, in which a number of well-priced and compatible Bluetooth accessories will lend to the growth of Bluetooth handsets; the “critical miss” scenario, in which Bluetooth terminal and accessory growth remains flat and the technology remains a niche product for the technologically savvy; and a “revolution in mobile devices” scenario, in which Bluetooth spurs the growth of new portable devices including games, personal digital assistants and messaging terminals.
Standardization and compatibility among devices will be necessary for widespread adoption of Bluetooth, according to Chamberlain. Also critical to Bluetooth uptake will be how involved IT and computing vendors are vs. mobile carriers. “It would come as no surprise that the large number of new accessories and applications might be oriented toward personal computers or PDAs, potentially bypassing mobile applications altogether,” Chamberlain said.
