The ability to access information on the move is becoming a key requirement for businesses and public services.

And as prices fall, both the numbers of people using remote access technology and the range of applications will grow exponentially.

For example, at the end of last year there were about 13 million people worldwide using mobile email technology of some kind, says analyst Gartner. By 2010 take-up will have exploded to more than 350 million users, of which 120 million will be in a commercial setting.

Remote access technology is hugely versatile. Organisations reliant on punctual deliveries are already making the most of the benefits of vehicle tracking ­ (see case study, below).

Others have recognised the potential for an affordable means of protecting their data ­ (see case study).

Falling costs are a significant factor, said Gartner analyst Leif-Olof Wallin.

“As prices decrease, there will be widespread opportunities to provide mobility services to businesses and consumers.”