WiFi Phones

As WiFi has emerged as one of the world's most popular wireless communication standards, many people have begun to speculate about its potential to replace normal cell phone networks.

WiFi connectivity has proven itself an extremely fast way to transfer data, and easily out-performs most cellular communication networks. The only problem with it as a replacement technology is its very limited range. WiFi phones are only able to work in existing WiFi hotspots, meaning that it wouldn't always be possible to make a phone call when roaming, especially in remote and rural areas.

In reality the range of wireless broadband hotspots would have to increase significantly for it to become a viable replacement for current cellular networks. This is gradually happening with emerging technologies like WiMax, but it will likely be a while yet before such standards become mainstream.

Nevertheless, WiFi is already playing its role in many other ways. Many new mobile phones and PDAs have some kind of WiFi connectivity, allowing for synchronization with computers and other mobile devices. WiFi has also proven to be an effective cost-cutter when combined with digital telephony services to make a short-range VoIP network.