Sub $20 3G handsets are possible says Mr CDMA

THE INQ was somewhat puzzled to learn that Mr CDMA, Perry LaForge, was visiting the MWC show in Barcelona, only to discover that he´s here talking to handset manufacturers.

LaForge wouldn't name names, but the vendors in question are a mix of Taiwanese and Chinese firms and the aim – which LaForge expects to achieve – is to create sub $20 handsets.

Those handsets – which are aimed at developing markets like India – are obviously going to have black and white screens. But – hey – they´ll still be 3G mobile phones.

The man who chairs the CDG – CDMA Development Group – claims there are now something like 100 operators with Cdmaone style networks operating in developing countries.

LaForge was also talking about ´handset aggregration'. Apparently this ensures that exactly the same kinds of facilities are built into CDMA phones sold in all markets. So an entry level mobile phone sold in Indonesia will have the same capabilities as one sold in Africa.

It´s an interesting push – especially given the GSMA´s initiatives in much the same direction. µ