We're running out of wireless spectrum

We're running out of wired bandwidth and the Internet is going to die. We all know that.

But now comes the doom-and-gloom revelation that we're also running out of wireless spectrum for our cordless communications.

One investment firm even put an expiration date: By 2015, we'll be in a "crisis" condition when it comes to wireless communications.

The reason should be obvious: Devices like the iPhone have turned consumers into mobile data junkies, and they're gobbling up wireless services like they're going out of style. (Cisco says wireless data traffic will double every year from hear on out, to 66 times the current level by the time we hit 2013.) That's going to force the major carriers to have to seriously expand the spectrum they use if they want to keep services up and running. Both Verizon and AT&T control about 80MHz of spectrum today; by 2015 they'll need up to 720MHz of spectrum to keep customers happy.

And yet, there's really no spectrum for them to have.

What will Verizon, AT&T, and their ilk do about this issue? Strategies are scarce but range from attempting to offload cellular traffic to Wi-Fi networks to delaying upgrades to next-generation technologies. There's also the prospect of simply begging for more spectrum from the FCC, but the commission is notoriously stingy on such matters.

Bottom line for consumers: Get ready for some wireless hurtin' come 2015. If the apocalypse in 2012 doesn't get us first, that is...