CTIA 2002, the world's largest wireless exhibition, has opened in Orlando, Florida, with about 1,000 exhibitors - compared with 700 last year - and the organiser predicting high attendance.
Despite a disastrous turn-out at Comdex Las Vegas and cooler than usual atmosphere at Germany's Cebit show, the Cellular Telecommunications and Internet Association, which organised the show, is confident interest will be strong for the exhibition.
CTIA Communications manager Travis Larson said: 'Definitely we see challenges this year. But it is absolutely a vibrant industry which is very competitive and active.'
For such a single-themed event, this wireless expo features a surprisingly wide variety of attractions - from devices and gimmicks to celebrity speakers including Jerry Seinfeld and Mikhail Gorbachev.
With the growing popularity of wireless networking, the show is attracting a more international audience. National pavilions have been set up to represent companies from South Korea, Taiwan, Finland and Israel.
Taiwan telephone accessories maker Winlex said CTIA had given it a good chance to expand its market in the United States. Spokeswoman Terry Chen said: 'This year the market has been performing quite well and our sales have improved, especially after the [Lunar] New Year.'