The bandwidth challenges inherent to today's mobile broadband services are well-reported, particularly with the heavy usage of AT&T's iPhone customers on its 3G network. Although mobile broadband network upgrades continue, operators are looking at other solutions to reduce network constraints. Wi-Fi is one such solution, and most of the activity has been focused on encouraging users to leverage the Wi-Fi connections on their smartphones along with the in-home access point (which is now found in nearly 30% of U.S. households).

However, Ruckus Wireless today announced what it calls "carrier grade" Wi-Fi products - including an outdoor access, a backhaul bridge, indoor equipment, and sytem-wide remote Wi-Fi management software - positioned as a strategic solution to the demand for mobile broadband access. Ruckus notes that the consumption of mobile bandwidth is outpacing revenue growth, and operators will need a Wi-Fi solution to augment 3G and 4G networks.

We're pleased to welcome Ruckus Wireless to our CONNECTIONS™ Europe Summit - 15 and 16 November - in Amsterdam. They will be represented on a panel discussion titled Mobile Broadband: Devices, Strategies, and Consumer Demand.