Fierce 15 2004

(Click here to find out what happened to these companies.)

Today we are pleased to announce our second annual list of "The Fierce 15" -- the top wireless startups of 2004.

Just like last year, we evaluated more than 1,200 privately-held companies based on their company vision, finances (including venture capital, investor confidence, and revenue/profit potential), existing deals and partnerships, and competitive position in the market.

The selection process this year was even harder than last year, thanks to the growing number of high-quality startups in the wireless market. This year's Fierce 15 companies showcase the technologies the technologies and trends -- such as push-to-talk, 3G networks, and mobile IM -- that we think are going to drive the wireless industry in the next 12 months.

There are no repeats on this year's list. Last year's winners were barred from consideration. We only select a company once for The Fierce 15. After that, the winners must graduate to the wireless industry, where they have to demonstrate that this honor as been earned.

The Fierce 15 companies are the cream of the crop -- the 15 privately-held startups we believe hold the most promise to help shape the wireless industry and establish a successful presence in this market. These companies are small, innovative, smart, and nimble: the epitome of fierce.

Without further adieu, here is the 2004 class of The Fierce 15.

- Stephen Wellman