The race is on

摘要

As cellular carriers make the transition from analog to digital networks, handset vendors are struggling to offer diverse product selections that meet everyone's needs. Most companies are focusing their resources on digital handsets. These digital-focused companies must consider which technology will dominate. Most leading manufacturers show indications of providing all major air interface phones. Although the growth rate in the analog market is flattening out and will start shifting toward digital, analog phones still are evolving with new enhanced features. Mitsubishi's AH-350 analog model now incorporates caller ID and voice mail waiting indication, functions that previously were viewed as digital feature sets. As advanced analog phone features become more common, vendors will concentrate on different colors, sizes, shapes and buttons. New digital handsets, however, will continue to evolve into even more enhanced products. The major differences between analog and digital phones will be messaging, and data and fax transmission capabilities. Eventually, digital phones with enhanced graphical user interfaces will be the key to accessing E-mail.