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Verizon Wireless announced today the upcoming release of the AD3700 global USB modem from ZTE. Locally, the device will utilize Verizon's EV-DO Revision A network, but globally it will open up its network capability and access EV-DO, GSM, GPRS, EDGE, HSPA, and UMTS, allowing Verizon wireless customers to use their new device in 175 countries.
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 Samsung Tocco is a sleek slider/touchscreen combo feature phone that packs a ton of functionality into a small form factor. It’s stylish and nice to use, and the red color will draw attention from those around you (at least it did for me). The phone was enjoyable to use, and Samsung’s TouchWiz UI was implemented nicely. Most noticeable on this phone is AMOLED display, which shines beautifully in any light, even outside.
Super-compact Linux computers will have to step up their game, with the launch of the Round Solutions AarLogic C10/3. Not only does the 104mm x 63mm board have dual ARM processors but a complete communications module with quadband GPRS and SiRF3 GPS.
Further details of Zer01 Mobile’s VoIP service have emerged, suggesting that the carrier will not only use AT&T’s network, as first reported, but has interconnect agreements with several US carriers. The $69.99 monthly fee gets unlimited calling in the US and unlimited data; a further $10 per month adds unlimited international calls to 40 destinations.
The Peek Pronto email device tipped last week has been officially launched, offering push email functionality, Microsoft Exchange compatibility and support for up to five email accounts rather than the usual two. The Pronto is priced at $79.95 and requires the same $19.95 monthly service charge as the original Peek messenger.
Video overview after the cut
In the months since we last wrote about InGrid’s DIY monitored security system, I’ve neither been burgled nor vigorously fleeced across the cobbles; however home security does remain close to my anxious heart. The company has now updated their range with a number of accessory units ideal for the perpetually paranoid, spanning from live-view IP cameras, through flood detectors and all the way to cellular gateways should felons cut your ADSL.
You don’t have to be as paranoid as I am about security to see the sense in fitting a decent alarm system. However, definitions of “decent” vary; it strikes me that all the sensors, sirens and flashing lights in the world aren’t much use if you’re out of hearing distance (how many neighbours actually check out your home when the alarm goes off, and how many just curse it as noise pollution?) And, since we’re united in our geekery, we can admit that it’s nice, too, when there’s a slick interface too. uControl are relatively fresh to the home security scene; they’ve spent the last year developing a platform called SMA (Security, Monitoring and Automation) and a TouchScreen control panel which not only works as a fresh system install but can also integrate with an existing alarm.
TomTom have launched a new range of in-car GPS sat nav units at CeBIT 2008 today, together with a GPRS-enabled traffic receiver that plugs directly into a car’s cigarette lighter. The three new devices, the 930, 730 and 530, all feature the company’s new IQ Routes technology which not only takes into account distance and permitted road speeds in calculating routes but also real-world typical speeds. TomTom are claiming that in 50-percent of journeys this new algorithm results in a different, quicker route than before. The GPS units also add Advanced Lane Guidance, which introduces more realistic junction diagrams, arrows indicating lane transitions and better voice prompts.
JP
