Unwired, but not tired

In the latest development in the emerging wireless Net access business, Unwired Planet today rolled out a developer's starter kit to support its technology, a key step in the fledgling company's marketing efforts.

The company offers a platform, including browser, server, and mark-up language, that allows mobile devices such as cellular phones and pagers to access the Net. Its developer's kit includes software, phones, and support to offer a service using the company's technology. It sells for $4,995.

Unwired Planet, managed largely by an Oracle team, is one of a fast-growing number of firms in the wireless Net market.

Wireless Net access tends to be more costly than wired access but it is considered more convenient by many users. Other companies involved in wireless networks include Metricom and Ameritech.

Privately held Unwired Planet recently has struck deals with AT&T and Bell Atlantic-Nynex Mobile Services to offer wireless Net access on cellular phones. Company investors include AT&T Wireless Services, Mitsubishi, Cirrus Logic, Greylock, and Matrix Partners.