Helio update
In the September 11th issue of Business Week, entitled A Net Pioneer's Wireless Wager (subscription required) it was pointed out that Helio will only enjoy its MySpace exclusivity until sometime in September. In addition, the price point for their hardware, which starts at $200-plus, and the service, which starts at $65 a month, has been a tough sell.
Hardware costs have always come down and tiered rate plans always emerge. I think ease of use in addition to these other points stated in the article will drive adoption. At the end of the day, it is about creating community. If Helio can create enough of a user base then they will survive, if not then the market will self-correct and someone else will step in. It has always been hard to be first, but the goal of creating community and giving people voice to their media is worth pursuing.
