Editor's Corner

By all indications, we are at a very interesting turning point in the mobile content industry. Read between the lines at what's being discussed at MECCA and the pre-CTIA parties and you'll hear a new tone emerging from the hype of the last few years. Now, the discussion is about delivering on the promise that's been promoted for so long now. Carriers and content developers are sounding serious about making something happen, with or without each other.

The content providers I drank with at the MECCA/MMA bash last night sound like they're ready to take all this into their own hands. It's not a diss against the carriers, but more of a sense that if they want to make this happen, they'll have to get much more involved than just licensing the content and waiting for somebody else to sell it for them. I expect more of that in the coming months.

Additionally, there's a real sense that the nature of the trade show itself will have to change. It's no longer about just discussing the big picture--there's a need to focus in on specifics.

It's difficult to precisely define what the change is in the air. I may get more specific in future columns. But the biggest news I'm getting out of the show is not any individual acquisition, content launch or partnership, but rather a real sense and realization by all that this industry is on the verge of a serious and dramatic change--and nobody is sure yet exactly what it will look like.

Don't forget to swing by the FierceWireless Oasis reception at CTIA, today, Sept. 12, from 6 until 9 at the Marriott Pool Gardens. More than 1,200 of the top wireless telecom execs have RSVP'd so far and we're really excited about this event. Please RSVP to attend. We'd love to see you all there. - Antony

 *Oasis will take place during CTIA Wireless IT & Entertainment 2006, but is not affiliated with or endorsed by CTIA.