Amid great expectations and hoopla, Wireless Application Protocol (WAP) emerged in 1997 as the solution to difficulties connecting wireless phones to the Internet. Now, however, the reality of Internet phones, especially in Europe, is breeding serious skepticism about the long-term usefulness of the technology.

Critics are pointing at the lack of WAP gateways connecting mobile users to the Web as well as the instability of those that do exist. Small screens, smaller lettering, high connection bills, and charges by developers who say that WAP displays sites differently on various phones are among the complaints leveled at the protocol by those who are already looking for something better.

To access two articles on WAP dissatisfaction, click www.thestandard.com and www.thestandard.com.