Turns out it’s not only the new UbiSurfer that DataWind have announced this week: there’s also the third-generation PocketSurfer [pdf link]. Two versions are now on offer, the PocketSurfer3 and PocketSurfer3 Lite, each offering 30hrs of included internet access per month (for UK buyers) together with a new touchpad for easier navigation and an improved LCD display.
DataWind’s PocketSurfer was one of those ideas that looked great – a clamshell internet access device with inclusive web browsing – but in practice was let down by an appalling screen, slow connection and frustrating “zero profile” RAZR-style keyboard. Now the company is back, and this time they’re bringing along a 7-inch netbook instead; the DataWind UbiSurfer will cost just £159.99 ($260) but come bundled with 30 hours of internet access per month for the first year. Pocket-lint were on-hand for the launch, and grabbed some hands-on photos.
The PocketSurfer 2 from DataWind is currently going for a decent price of $350 in the UK. This Internet-focused device is perfect for browsing the web on the go. However, there is an Internet connection catch you should probably be aware of.
With a frustrating keyboard, lack of media functionality and dull, washed-out screen, DataWind’s PocketSurfer2 never especially caught on. The promise was good: a portable internet device with full QWERTY, sizable display and low-cost surfing, based on a cellular connection (sadly GPRS) but with all of the technical details hidden out of sight of the user. DataWind obviously think it’s promising enough to rework, and so we have the new PocketSurfer2R with, among other things, better connectivity and an improved screen.
Some of you may have read about the Pocket Surfer phone from DataWind back in 2004. It raised a lot of eyebrows, and questions. Mostly “when will it be launched?” Well, DataWind is back with their PocketSurfer 2.
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