Ericsson frees netbooks from dongles and wires with new broadband module

Ericsson (NASDAQ: ERIC) today launched its latest mobile broadband module specifically designed for mini lap-tops, also known as netbooks, to give even greater freedom for the users. Pre-certified with many of the world's largest networks, the new module enables manufactures to quickly equip their netbooks with integrated wireless connectivity.

Mats Norin, Vice President of Ericsson Mobile Broadband Modules says: "Netbooks are redefining the way consumers think about the internet and mobile broadband. Netbooks enable consumers to enjoy their music, video, photos and more, on the go. By coupling our cost-effective mobile broadband solution with the affordability of netbooks, Ericsson is bringing connectivity to the masses."

The Ericsson F3307 embedded mobile broadband module frees netbooks from other cumbersome connectivity solutions such as dongles, enables users to directly access the internet through HSPA, the leading mobile broadband technology, which serves more than 1 billion subscribers in over 100 countries worldwide.

Optimized for netbooks, the new module combines performance, simplicity and low power consumption at an attractive cost for manufacturers. Ericsson has also pre-approved its modules with mobile operators in more than 75 countries, allowing netbook manufacturers to cut the product launch phase by shortening the final certification process and enabling faster time to market.

Additionally, Ericsson is working closely with Intel to validate the F3307 mobile broadband module with Intel's next-generation netbook platform, Pine Trail-M.

Erik Reid, Director of Marketing, Intel Mobile Platforms Group says: "Built-in mobile broadband helps provide the anytime, anywhere connectivity that consumers desire. By working closely with Ericsson, we are enabling manufacturers to address broader market needs at a faster time to market through new channels, such as mobile operators, with our next-generation netbook platform, Pine Trail-M."

Ericsson estimates that more than 300 million netbooks will be sold between 2009 and 2014 with a majority having mobile broadband capabilities. Many operators are already offering mobile broadband bundled notebooks and by 2011, more than 30 percent of netbooks will be sold through operator channels.