But that's too technical. The behavior will have to be different. So far, consumer interest in a wireless Internet has been anemic. Still, the potential for accessing the Internet via mobile phone may be something to call home about. Network carriers, online portals, application providers and others are betting billions of dollars that mobile communications devices could eventually become the preferred way to access the Net.
Wireless phones are cheaper than personal computers and are almost always with the user.
E-mail is just one the many kinds of applications in store on the wireless Internet. In recent months, those companies have forged alliances and staked claims with telecom leaders. By this summer, Cellular One San Francisco also plans to offer wireless Internet access to customers. This technology will enable emergency service providers to find callers. It also will help lay the groundwork for a slew of e-commerce sites and services.