There are a lot of benefits to the big Sprint/Clearwire merger, which is getting very close to being finalized, but like most everything in this complicated world, there is at least one downside to the partnership. Unlike LTE, Sprint has been promoting WiMAX products as being "dual-mode," meaning they operate on both CDMA and WiMAX systems. With a CDMA option, users can roam the world and activate service in areas that operate on non-SIM networks, a huge plus for consumers that travel globally and need internet access wherever they go.

Really, though?

Not for XOHM users!

Here's the deal: Clearwire/Sprint's WiMAX products will be marketed under the XOHM name, and those products and service are on the way beginning this year. For some reason, Sprint wants to keep XOHM products WiMAX only - no CDMA. They WILL be offering dual-mode products (including a laptop card that will debut sometime next year, most likely), but only on the Sprint-branded not network.

Confusing enough for you? Frustrating?

For many early adopters, it won't make much of a difference. Not everyone travels around the world, and for them CDMA is really a non-issue. But what about business travelers and the like? They will be forced to either wait until they can get a Sprint-only device or go through the pain of switching after some time of using XOHM stuff.

Only time will tell whether this confusing split between dual- and single-mode devices will make a big impact on consumers. We do know that there is a percentage of 3G users that are disappointed by the lack of CDMA support for EVDO from Verizon and Sprint, and I'm sure that will transfer to 4G.

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