PocketNet Redux

Many analysts agree that AT&T Wireless' Digital PocketNet service is a step in the right direction for the telecom giant, but there are many miles yet to cover in the wireless-Internet race.

Although the service is affordable — free with a basic plan or $7 to $15 per month for extras — and puts AT&T Wireless in the race for mass-market Web access, PocketNet isn't the sequel to Digital One Rate, which created waves in the voice-pricing arena two years ago.

Andrew Cole, Renaissance Strategy wireless-practice head, said, "This is a pleasant step forward but not a revolutionary one by any means."

Though some analysts compared PocketNet's small number of Web sites to the larger number available on Sprint PCS' Wireless Web, Cole said sheer numbers don't matter. Wireless-data services must be customized to truly ignite customer demand, he said.

"The real debate is around applications," Cole said. "That's why I don't think it's going to be a huge step until (AT&T) and other carriers do a lot more on the application-development front."

Just offering wireless Web access apparently isn't enough, even if it is almost free.