1. S'pore says NBN will stay competitive

Tight regulation will ensure players on Singapore's next-generation broadband network will strive to be competitive, assures local telecoms regulator.

2. App stores unfazed by proprietary threat

Arrival of proprietary mobile app stores such as Windows Marketplace won't topple third-party stores that can still differentiate, say MobiHand and Handango.

3. Nokia exec talks Ovi platform

Niklas Savander, Nokia's top services guy, shares his thoughts on everything from lessons learned from Apple to why the Ovi store still isn't available on AT&T's network.

4. Wi-Fi-free iPhone officially lands in China

While China saw nothing near the frenzy of the first iPhone launch day in the U.S., crowds there did honor the tradition of lining up for the phone hours in advance. But price--and a lack of Wi-Fi--could prove a deterrent.

5. Do-it-yourself iPhone apps

Services that do the coding for you make it easy for nontechies to create iPhone apps. Applications to the Apple App Store are exploding.

6. Wi-Fi Direct, Bluetooth to co-exist within device

New Wi-Fi specs that enable direct connections won't replace Bluetooth. Instead, both wireless protocols will likely be supported in the same device, says analyst.

7. Malaysia fines laggard WiMax licensees

Government slaps penalties totaling US$1.1 million on all but one of country's WiMax operators after they failed to meet required network coverage.

8. Smaller APAC telcos innovate to compete

Tier two and three mobile operators in Asia-Pacific bank on innovative services to grow, says market player, who adds Singapore telcos can do more.

9. Universal phone charger offers vast opportunities

Manufacturers pledge support for new standard in mobile phone charger, which GSM Association says will give rise to product and retail innovation in mobile market.

10. Verizon: Who needs the iPhone?

To stay ahead of AT&T and Apple, Verizon is placing a big bet on Android smartphones and other new gadgets.