2012 International CES expands wireless exhibits

CES’ Access on the Go TechZone will highlight mobile devices that deliver on-the-go content such as music, movies, television, books and magazines. Devices such as the e-Reader, the tablet and products that blur the line between both are flooding the marketplace.

According to CEA research, tablet computers are projected to grow 157 percent in 2011, with more than 26.5 million units shipped to dealers, resulting in $14 billion in shipment revenue. Also, e-Reader unit sales will double this year, with more than 16.5 million units being shipped bringing in $1.8 billion in revenue.

Smartphone sales will also see major growth this year with unit sales expected to climb an estimated 45 percent, reaching more than $23 billion in industry revenue.

Major wireless exhibitors at the 2012 International CES include: Alcatel-Lucent, Audiovox, Blackberry, Ericsson, LG, Motorola, Nokia, Qualcomm, Samsung, Sprint, T-Mobile and Verizon.

For the first time at CES, MEMS Industry Group (MIG) will host the MEMS TechZone. This new area of the show floor showcases companies that are driving the adoption of this exciting technology in mobile phones, game consoles, tablet PCs and other hot consumer-electronic devices. MIG is the trade association responsible for advancing Micro-Electro-Mechanical Systems, or MEMS, across global markets.

The 2012 International CES will also highlight wireless technology in various conference tracks:

Mobile Payment Basics: How the Technology Works

A wireless ecosystem promises to turn your phone into a credit card — whether you like it or not. How prevalent is this new pay-as-you-go infrastructure, and what are the opportunities and obstacles for retailers seeking to offer a mobile payment option? This session will examine the different technologies including near field communications that will drive the implementation of mobile payment.

To 4G or Not to 4G

Now that the major carriers have rolled out 4G networks, how will they leverage the increased capacity and speed? Is 4G helping to relieve the spectrum crunch, or is it accelerating the need for additional spectrum? Wireless experts assess progress in the 4G market and answer a question: How long before the massive investment in 4G is recouped?

Smartphones: Hot Features and Trends

In the rapidly evolving world of smartphones, which new phones, features and apps will engage the public and open new vistas for the category? A panel of carriers, manufacturers and analysts single out the hottest features and trends in hardware and software and look ahead to game-changing innovations on the horizon.

Planet of the Apps

Along with the rampant proliferation of apps has come an exciting new world of opportunity — and challenges. Learn how to integrate the hottest thing in mobile into your existing offerings. App developers share success stories, explore the pros and cons of free versus paid models and reveal the secrets behind devising a viable and profitable app strategy.