U.S. Robotics shipped their 56 kbps X2 modems this week. The new modems provide twice the performance of 28.8 kbps modems currently in use. Many U.S. Robotics 28.8 and 33.3 kbps modems are easily upgradeable to 56kbps. Early adopters have no need to rush out and purchase the new modems, as it will take a few months for ISPs to upgrade to the new modems. The X2 technology requires a 56 kbps modem at each end of the connection for optimized speed.
Competition is close behind with similar products.
As modem performance increases, the disparity between speeds may cause concern for Web surfers with older modems. Many users still have 14.4 kbps modems, which surf at a fraction of the speed of 56 kbps modems, yet users currently pay one flat rate to access providers. To better meet the needs of users, access providers may want to consider specific pricing for each type of modem speed. In addition, MAID will transfer Internet access to 4th Network which includes Europe's largest in-room entertainment provider. These new partnerships will provide the nearly half of business travelers and one third of leisure travelers currently using online services the access they desire on a global level.