Ubiquisys one step closer to the 'free' femtocell

Femtocell software-maker Ubiquisys claims to have solved the femtocell subsidy problem. Today the vendor announced a software kit and reference design that will allow home electronics–makers to construct a femtocell for under $100, the magical price point that many people in the industry believe will trigger femtocells' emergence into the mass market.

Femtocell-makers and industry observers have long believed that the price of the miniature home base stations has long prevented them from beyond the early adopter market. Many of the early devices retailed for more than $300. In the U.S., carriers have subsidized the devices but have still charged customers $150 or more to purchase them. If priced below $100, though, not only can customers buy a cheaper box, but carriers can offset most or all of the cost through subsidy.

"Operators have long demanded a sub-$100 price point so they can offer femtocells for free," said Chris Gilbert, CEO of Ubiquisys, in a statement. If the industry can get free, the topology of the network can radically change, as operators can add more coverage and capacity by simply shipping femtos to their customers, rather than adding more capital-intensive macrocells.

Ubiquisys is releasing what amounts to a blueprint for a basic femtocell, coupling it with its Femto-Engine software. Though Ubiquisys didn’t reveal how much it is charging its customers for the package, company officials said the design will allow a manufacturer to produce femtocells in volume it can wholesale for under $100.