More on the future of wireless technology

Microsoft and BT have launched the first large-scale practical trial of wireless internet services.

Four 'guinea pigs' - the BBC, Credit Suisse First Boston, KPMG and Nortel Networks - will test applications including e-mail and the functions of Microsoft's own Exchange package covering diary, address lists and personalised web content via their mobile phones. Altogether, about 1000 users will be involved.

Internal trials have already been held. The goal now is to assess the size of the market and gather detailed feedback on how customers will actually use the service.

Both suppliers are confident there is a substantial market here. The demand for mobile data, according to BT, is already growing at a rate of 75% compound annually. By 2005, the total market value is projected to be $80bn.

BT and Microsoft are planning a 'sizeable commercial deployment' early next year.

Elliott Chase