14 DAY TRIAL // Datawind, a company that specializes in providing end-users with wireless, web-access products and services, has recently announced the introduction of its new PocketSurfer3 and PocketSurfer3 Lite, third-generation devices that are meant to provide them with support for easily connecting to the Internet. Both products are featured with a Linux operating system and come with 30 hours of monthly Internet access for users in the UK.
Featuring a small-sized, 5-inch display, capable of a 640 x 240-pixel resolution, the new PocketSurfer3 from Datawind will essentially enable end-users to connect and surf the Internet, using a GPRS connection. As far as technical specifications go, the two PocketSurfer3 devices are featured with a GPS, and a new Linux-based operating system that offers basic office and PIM (personal information management) application support. There's also an improved touchpad and LCD, compared with the second-generation PocketSurfer, consequently improving the Internet navigation.
Unfortunately, the devices have some issues with streaming videos, such as the ones on YouTube, which means users are left with some basic Internet webpages. We have no details on the differences between the PocketSurfer3 and the “Lite” version, but more particulars should surface later on.
Trying to sweeten the offer, Datawind has included a connection plan that comprises fees of £0.05 ($0.08) per minute in Europe and the US for roaming on the GPRS connection. Users can also choose to upgrade to unlimited mobile access at either £5.99 ($9.75) per month or a one-off charge of £59.99 ($98). Further on, after a year, the mobile data access will cost £29.99 ($49) for another twelve months.
As far as pricing and availability go, the two PocketSurfer3 devices are expected to become available starting next month, with prices beginning at £199.99 for the PocketSurfer3 and at £159.99 for the PocketSurfer3 Lite.