The best and worst of 2008

Web/telephony integrated consumer services

What seemed like a no-brainer — integrating voice calling into Web sites and social networks (Jaxtr, Jajah, etc.) — has been anything but as these services have not taken off as expected, despite claims of millions of users and minutes.

Cloud computing

Especially the idea that it's something wildly new versus the next step in hosted apps and managed services.

Mobile VoIP

It has the potential to be useful for consumers and revitalize voice for wireless operators, but the technology has yet to really make an influence. Cost savings haven't overcome complexity or carrier blocking, at least not yet.

Multicast mobile TV

Qualcomm's MediaFLO technology has been on the market for two years, but it has yet to gain significant traction — so it seems. The mobile TV provider still won't release subscriber numbers.

Microsoft Zune

Another example of Apple's reign. iPod killer it was not.

Push to talk

Though P2T still has a loyal following, the service has failed to expand beyond its tight circle of dedicated users into the mainstream — despite the technology and network investments made on its behalf.

WHY WE'RE SICK OF 4G

1. Because even if edge radio access increases, backhaul limits and costs will minimize true throughput speeds.

2. 3G still isn't perfect. Just ask the new iPhone owners.

3. Considering that broadband is not yet universal, the industry may need to walk before it can run.

4. We've just figured out what to do with 3G.

5. We're running out of products, companies and concepts to attach the suffix “MAX” to.

6. Barry West, Clearwire president and WiMAX evangelist, is starting to repeat his long-term evolution jokes.

7. We know the crash is coming. The wave of hype creates expectations that can never truly be met, so we choose to prepare for the inevitable disappointment.