What a Comcast wireless service could mean

[Commentary] Comcast is expanding its network of Wi-Fi hotspots in an effort to “kneecap wireless providers” such as AT&T and Verizon.

While Comcast has yet to announce any specific plans, it recently wrote in a Federal Communications Commission filing that it could build “a ubiquitous Wi-Fi network” that could connect users via Wi-Fi whenever possible, falling back to a cellular network only when necessary. The strategy could enable Comcast to deliver wireless services at a fraction of the price of traditional cellular network operators.

A huge looming question, then, is how Comcast would launch a mobile service: Would it partner with an existing carrier to launch a mobile virtual network operator (MVNO), or would it buy its way into the market via acquisition?