Mobile broadband logo launched

Laptop manufacturers and broadband providers have teamed up to push for built-in support for mobile broadband on laptops.

As part of the drive to get more notebook computers compatible for mobile broadband, a new logo (pictured) has been created, which will signify that a laptop will work with third- and fourth-generation (3G and 4G) wireless technology.

Computers with the new 'mobile mark' will be available to buy before Christmas said Michael O'Hara, chief marketing officer at the GSM Association.

O'Hara said consumers would eventually be able to get these laptops in mobile phone shops.

"You can go to an operator's store, buy a laptop and it will be already fitted so you can go online instantly," he said.

Companies so far signed up to the $1bn venture include 3, Asus, Dell, Ericsson, Microsoft, Orange, Qualcomm, T-Mobile, Toshiba and Vodafone.

Laptops with the new mark will support speeds of at least 3.6Mbps. The technical specification states that 3.6Mbps is required, and that 7.2Mbps is recommended, but the mark will always look the same.

The goal is to make it easy for consumers to find computers with built-in support for mobile broadband.

However, Steven Hartley, senior analyst at Ovum, asked if the initiative was really necessary.

"If you look at the uptake of mobile broadband services, do they really need an initiative like this? asked Hartley.

"The operators and vendors are working together anyway to ensure these things are interoperable," he added.

www.gsmworld.com
www.ovum.com