May 22, 2008 5:10PM

Look Out, Jetsons… This is the Future

By Alexis Glick

Ever met, interviewed or talked to a true pioneer? Today I talked to a man who is revolutionizing the way we use technology. He is fascinating and utterly brilliant! His name is Nagesh Challa, the CEO of Ecrio.

Nagesh’s company, created ten years ago, has changed the way we use our cell phones. He has been granted 21 patents for his creations in the semiconductor, software, and mobile technology business. Unbelievable, if you think about it!

Nagesh grew up in India and moved to the U.S. to get a PhD in physics at Purdue University. He first created a company called NexCom Technology where he began changing the way technology is used. He has since developed products like Push-to-Talk, a voice-based internet-messaging system. From there he created Push-to-X which allows someone to speak into a microphone and leave a voice-recorded message for someone else… the recipient can respond with voice software, email back or text back. You can even send a video link!

Now he has created something called MoBeam, a program that allows a cell phone user to store their credit card information and beam it through the bar code to the retailer. No need for a wallet anymore! You’ll be able to store bar codes in your phone. No need for movie tickets, boarding passes or coupons!! Companies like Visa are investing in his technology but they’re not the only ones. NTT DoCoMo, Mitsubishi, Sony Ericsson and NEC have also been investors.

In Japan, Nagesh’s technology is in 30 million cell phones. Now, he has turned his attention to the U.S. This morning I interviewed him on The Opening Bell. Keep an eye on him. He will reinvent the way we communicate and do business!