During the history of the Internet, we've seen repeated cycles of new technology enabling new higher bandwidth applications which create pressure for even higher bandwidth. We're at the cusp of a new cycle, for which wireless long term evolution (LTE) technology is the key enabler. The success of HSPA and other 3G wireless technologies, along with the iPhone, have given rise to the first wave of media-rich, bandwidth-hungry mobile applications.

Without a next generation wireless technology, networks will certainly bog down with the volume of video-related transmissions. LTE, with scalable bandwidth, peak download rates of 300 Mbps and increased numbers of users per cell over an all IP infrastructure will provide the essential technology.

This ubiquitous, on-the-go network will make possible video-rich multimedia services. Remote healthcare services, previously hampered by the huge amount of patient data required, will find its way onto LTE-enabled devices. Remote education and social media application developers will find new and unique ways to utilize increased bandwidth.

Mobile operators have an opportunity to make LTE handsets and netbooks the new on-ramps to the Internet with highly profitable real-time web applications. The LTE ecosystem will bring new profit pools for new "engaged applications" to mobile service providers.