Acer, Ericsson and Telstra provide mobile netbook without a separate USB card

Thursday, 23 December, 2010

Telstra, in a partnership with Acer and Ericsson, has launched Australia’s first commercial netbook that supports typical download speeds of 550 Kbps to 8 Mbps on the Next G network in capital cities and many regional areas, providing the fastest mobile broadband experience available without a separate USB card.

Nigel Gore, General Manager, Product Management at Acer, says: “Ericsson’s 21 Mbps HSPA evolution embedded module allows us to offer consumers high-speed connectivity and an outstanding internet experience - all while reducing power consumption by up to 30% and thereby extending battery life. It’s a great, user-friendly and affordable package that lets consumers forget about the USB card.

“In September, Ericsson unveiled the world’s first commercially available F5521gw mobile broadband module specifically designed for netbooks, notebooks and tablets. It includes technologies that allow users to remain connected while the device is in sleep mode, or to disable it via the network if the device has been stolen.

“Today’s announcement is closing the circle by launching the complete package: a netbook with a built-in 21 Mbps rated HSPA Evolution*mobile broadband module - based on ST-Ericsson’s new thin modem platform M570 - ready for consumers to buy off the shelf in Telstra stores throughout Australia,” Gore said.

Richard Fink, Director Mobile Products, Telstra, says: “With so many Australians adopting mobile broadband for their work and personal lives, the Acer Aspire One AOD255 provides a convenient new option that combines computing with fast mobile connectivity.

“Weighing in at just over a kilogram, this light 10″ netbook features embedded Next G network connectivity and removes the hassle of having to carry a separate 3G modem around. We think our customers will love how quickly they will be able to access email, stream YouTube clips and update Facebook while on the go.”

Mats Norin, Vice President of Ericsson Mobile Broadband Modules, says: “We clearly see a trend of converging HSPA technology and consumer electronics - and it’s driven by consumers’ demand for fast and reliable connectivity. As a result, we have also noticed a great demand for mobile broadband modules in the PC industry, which is realising the great potential of integrating the modules into notebooks and tablets.”

The fact that users expect internet access on a wide range of devices in various locations explains why the portable PC market isn’t cooling down. Rather, it is expected to grow by 90% from 2010 to 2014, according to a report published by the International Data Corporation (IDC) in August.