DataWind Launches the PocketSurfer2 -- the World's Fastest Handheld Mobile Internet Device

July 20, 2007; 03:54 AM
DataWind, a leading provider of wireless web access products and services, today announced the launch of the PocketSurfer2, an ultra-thin, ultra-portable internet communications device. Pocketsurfer2 is a handheld device that delivers the full power and original graphic intensity of the internet rapidly and wirelessly to the palm of your hand, for free.

The PocketSurfer2 allows you to browse the web in its original HTML layout, with full graphics, Java support and other complex web functionality on a 640 x 240 colour widescreen display. An integrated mouse pointer and a full format, backlit QWERTY keyboard makes it the most usable hand-held web device around. PocketSurfer2 fits easily into a pocket or bag and delivers the real web, just like you’re used to at home or at work. The rich user experience of the PocketSurfer2 offers a real alternative to consumers tired of the limited functionality, unfamiliar content and small screens on mobile phones or smartphones.

It doesn’t hang about either, with page-load times of under seven seconds over GPRS thanks to DataWind’s patented acceleration technology, you’ll be flying around the web just as you would at your desk. Comparative devices regularly take up to two minutes to download similar web pages. At its launch event and select trade shows, DataWind even offers an industry-wide speed challenge to illustrate its claim as the fastest mobile handheld web access device.

DataWind’s free-usage model eliminates the complexity of purchasing mobile web devices by eliminating lengthy contractual payments, activation fees and credit checks. With the PocketSurfer2, you pay for the device not the usage. The PocketSurfer2 can be activated by the user right out of the box and is ready to use shortly thereafter. Best of all, for the average user, there are no monthly fees – those are paid by DataWind. Free usage for the PocketSurfer2 is available everywhere your mobile phone works, not restricting you to WiFi hotspots.

Suneet S. Tuli, CEO of DataWind, commented, “Our goal was to deliver the real web, fast and free. With PocketSurfer2 mobile users can surf the internet anytime, anyplace and enjoy the same rich media graphics and browser functionality of the desktop experience. This device is going to revolutionise the way we work, play, communicate and take advantage of the wireless web.”

Pricing and availability

The PocketSurfer2 is priced at £179.99 and will be available in high street stores, and independent consumer electronics and mobile phone stores throughout the UK starting August 16^th, 2007. Additionally, the PocketSurfer2 will also be available through online retailers and television direct marketing. From July 25th, 2007, pre-orders can be placed through Amazon UK (amazon.co.uk) to obtain first delivery before high-street availability.

Basic usage (20 hours per month) is included for the first year, and requires no additional fees.

Basic usage for the second year would cost a maximum of £40.00 for the whole year.

Heavy users can opt for unlimited access for only £5.99 a month.

Features:

• Independent self-contained unit with built-in GPRS modem and SIM
• GPS location information
• Lithium polymer battery
• 5 hours battery life for active usage, and 5 days standby
• Built-in high performance antenna
• Transreflective backlit display
• 640 x 240 VGA colour
• Mini USB charger
• Mouse pointer
• Backlit QWERTY keyboard
• Sub 7 second page-load
• Web browsing in original layout
• Weight – 174 grams
• Dimensions - 152 x 75 x 15 mm

For further information, or to request NFR units for review, please contact [email protected]

About DataWind – www.DataWind.com

DataWind is a leading provider of wireless web access products and services. Based on several international patents, DataWind’s breakthrough technologies solve the bandwidth limitations of cellular networks by accelerating content delivery by factors of 10x to 30x. The DataWind PocketSurfer2 is the first product to deliver the experience of the desktop Internet efficiently to a mobile cellular customer. DataWind headquarters are based in Montreal, Canada as well as having a London office.