We’ve all experienced losing cell and internet service when entering a “dead spot.” Up until recently, there was never a solution other than using another person’s phone that hopefully is supported by a carrier that has service in the area. However, new technologies have been developed that appear to solve this very common problem.
The new technology
A company called Open Garden, launched a free application which connects all of your data services on your various devices through a mesh network. But, that’s not all. The network can also connect with your friends’ and families’ devices. Essentially, the technology allows you, your friends, and family to create their own network and manage who is allowed to enter. What’s more, whenever you don’t have internet service on your phone, you will automatically be able to tap into the network which theoretically has many others with strong signals in the network. The network automatically selects the fastest signal available and switches to another one if that node goes offline or slows do. Currently, the application is offered on Windows, Mac, Android, and will soon be compatible with iOS.
Do we have any concerns?
Privacy and security are the obvious concerns but the mesh network is encrypted and the device doesn’t let you monitor the traffic on the network. Technically, users will be able to control who is able to access the network but that doesn’t prevent an outsider from hacking into it or someone in the network mistakenly providing access to an untrustworthy source.
What about the implications on battery power?
Most of the power consumption comes from the data transmission similar to how you use your phone today. But, the application can help you save some battery by offloading to WiFi, which uses less power than a 3G or 4G connection.
Usage and Carrier Reaction
It is unclear if the user transmitting data will be charged for their usage or the data will be spread across those in the network. We still don’t know how carriers are going to react to this new technology which is seemingly like what VOIP did to the landline. We have to imagine that most carriers will not be too happy about this new technology, but on the flip-side, this technology could allow them to better manage bandwidth costs.
This is just the beginning
Despite our concerns, we think this technology will be perfected over time. We also believe that the application represents the beginning of a trend of sharing applications across networks. With time, you may be able to access another mobile phone’s applications without having to download it yourself.
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