Some of the world’s biggest mobile operators, PC manufacturers, and chipmakers will reveal on Sept. 30 that they are uniting to pre-install support for high-speed mobile data services into notebook PCs. Backers hope the move will result in wider consumer use of so-called "mobile broadband" that could rival or even surpass use of Wi-Fi hotspots.
If the plan works, it could boost third-generation (3G) mobile broadband in much the same way that Wi-Fi exploded after Intel (INTC) built support for it into the Centrino chipset. Consumers will have an easier time getting online while on the move: Instead of having to search for a Wi-Fi hotspot, owners of laptops equipped with the new technology will be able to connect wirelessly to the Internet wherever they are, as long as they’re within coverage range and have a mobile subscription with data service.
The industry alliance is about much more than just bundling technology, though. As a result of the shift, some mobile operators will start selling laptops in their phone shops—with big price incentives. That adds a significant new distribution channel, which could boost not just mobile broadband use but also sales of laptops, especially in emerging economies. Read more...
If you're new here, you may want to subscribe to our RSS feeds. Thanks for visiting!
