High hopes for WML: Standard aims to offer handset-independent applications

Unwired Planet said it is the first to release a browser and server created to the Wireless Application Protocol Forum's wireless markup language specifications. Released in May, WML signals several things for wireless carriers-most important that they should look out for an array of useful browsers from different vendors and an open door to new ways to increase network use.

WAP Forum members and software developers hope that the standard will open the market for Web-based applications accessible by wireless handsets. "It's safe for operators to deploy services and safe for manufacturers to create browsers," said Ben Linder, vice president of marketing for Unwired Planet.

WML should lower costs to carriers for several reasons. Because a standard browser can be implemented into all handsets from various manufacturers, carriers can offer applications to all users, regardless of the handset. Carriers should also be able to choose from more applications and will be able to implement them more cost effectively.

"From the application developer's standpoint, it's easier for them to justify developing an application," said Sam Zellner, senior manager of strategic technology for BellSouth Cellular. Rather than develop an application for use by one carrier's customers, application developers can market products to all wireless operators.

Browser and server developers will have to work hard to differentiate their products in an environment with a standard. They have varying ideas on how that can be done. Spyglass, a developer of servers and browsers that aid in the delivery of Web-based information to devices, plans to produce a "hybrid WML HTML browser," said Jack Armstrong, director of Internet Solutions for Spyglass.

Currently, WML is designed to deliver information in a simple format to the tiny screen of a wireless phone. But users of personal digital assistants (PDAs) will also likely want to use applications that let them access Web content, as evidenced by the recent outcropping of wireless-enabling attachments to PDAs. Although the current WML can be used by PDAs, most PDAs have larger screens to accommodate more enhanced delivery. Spyglass hopes to be one of the first to address that market.

But Spyglass will have to develop that product quickly because Armstrong said that future iterations of WML will include a version for PDAs.

UP will differentiate itself on speed to market and most efficient implementation, Linder said. UP may have competitors beat on the speed to market point.

Application developers believe that carriers will bite on different applications first, and whatever they choose will be used to differentiate their service.

"One of the first things they will do is implement customer care functions," Armstrong said. Operators will use browsers to allow customers to check account status, find phone accessories and access tips on using features. He also noted that carriers may want applications that allow them to initiate programs with users such as sending them messages suggesting additional services.

Operators also say they will use phone browsers to offer users access to information services, personal content such as address books or vertical applications, said Chuck Parrish, executive vice president of UP and chairman of the WAP Forum.

Future WML developments may include electronic commerce capabilities, Armstrong said. Such applications may be popular first in Europe, where users already can do things such as call for takeout and pay from the smart cards in their phones. Such applications may become attractive in the U.S.

Regardless of what's to come, the release of a standard doesn't necessarily pave the way. "Keep in mind the WAP Forum is trying to put together standards but there will be variations," Zellner said. Like many other industries with standards, wireless companies will likely try to differentiate themselves by working outside the standard. "I don't think it will be as easy to get to one standard as people might think," he said.

NEW GSM GROUP FORMED

Several manufacturers have formed a new GSM group called the Global Mobile Suppliers Association, chartered with strengthening the promotion of GSM worldwide. The group will complement other bodies such as the GSM MOU.

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