Dell to integrate 3G in notebooks

Dell today announced it will bring Vodafone's third generation (3G) wireless broadband technology to Dell's notebook customers in the UK, France and Germany. With its build-to-order capability, Dell aims to expand customers' wireless connectivity options by delivering built-in access to Vodafone's high-speed wireless data network in these countries. This new service will mean users will have readily available access to email, Internet and servers through the Vodafone mobile broadband data network.

Beginning in the first half of this year, Dell will offer notebook computers with optional integrated High-Speed Downlink Packet Access (HSDPA) wireless broadband capability, which will boost current 3G download speeds by approximately four times.

The built-in mobile broadband technology will also be backwards compatible with Universal Mobile Telecommunications System (UMTS - also known as 3G) technology and General Packet Radio Service (GPRS) wireless data networks.

Dell continues to set the pace in ensuring mobile users have the widest choices in wireless connectivity by integrating optional mobile broadband capability in future notebook products. It is the first major personal computer supplier to announce multiple wireless carrier partnerships in multiple regions, including agreements with Vodafone initially in France, Germany and the UK.