JP
The sublimely slinky Kevin C. Tofel (the “C” stands for comely) tells us that Samsung’s second stab at UMPC loveliness, the Q1b, will not only wield a VIA processor but have broadband-a-like wireless 3G connectivity – for those of you who love numbers more than words, that means 1.8Mbps as the networks warm up, with 14.4Mbps at its peak.
Based on the clever and unpronounceable HSDPA technology, the Q1b now jumps ahead of the ultra-portable pack with its dedicated always-on connection. One of the common criticisms aimed at all of these tiny-tablets has been their dependence on finding an open WiFi hotspot, which otherwise handicaps their usefulness to the average Joe (or Josephine).
Samsung has also upped the battery life; as Kevin gleefully points out, it should be around five hours. Released in the fourth quarter, prices tbc.
