Dual-Mode Handsets Require Wi-Fi InvestmentsDual-Mode Handsets Require Wi-Fi Investments

THE HOPE
The combo of voice over Wi-Fi and dual-mode handsets provides a more flexible alternative to cellular-only networks and phones.

THE CATCH
Many businesses won't see enough upside to build the infrastructure to support it. And are the handsets up to it?

Voice over Wi-Fi, OR VoWi-Fi, is a potentially more reliable, flexible, and cheaper alternative to cellular networks for making wireless phone calls within buildings. Dual-mode handsets will even let someone pass from a Wi-Fi network into a cellular one without dropping a call. That could mean mobile workers don't need a desk phone, since a cell phone shifts to the office network once on campus.

Nifty technologies, but how many businesses will see the pay-back to justify building out a Wi-Fi infrastructure and investing in the handsets? Our guess, for the next few years at least, is a minority.

Dual-mode phones are available from Avaya and Motorola. Nokia, SpectraLink, and others plan models this year. Even buildings with Wi-Fi networks likely will need more access points, as people expect voice coverage in restrooms, elevators, and other places where laptops aren't typically used. Dual-mode phones will be adopted mostly in industries where employees move around a lot, such as retail, manufacturing, and health care.

Wireless seems like a natural extension of voice over IP, but there's the hurdle of integrating a wireless network with a company's IP PBX to route employees' desk phone calls to dual-mode handsets. Those not using VoIP would need a gateway between the network and the regular phone system. PBX and wireless network vendors are trying to simplify the setup with partnerships: Nortel Networks with Trapeze Networks, Juniper Networks with Meru Networks, and Cisco has acquired Airespace.

The Hartford Financial Services Group considered using dual-mode phones to give sales reps a choice of networks on the road but decided Wi-Fi coverage is still too spotty. Plus, service is rarely seamless. Dual-mode handsets could let agents conduct business without worrying about calls being dropped when moving outside of a coverage area, says David Burns, assistant VP of E-business and technology, but he thinks it will be a few more years before the devices provide that assurance.

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