RALEIGH, N.C. — Lenovo is teaming up with Cingular to offer a laptop computer that can access wireless networks in more than 100 countries.
Lenovo is equipping its ThinkPad T60 laptop with Cingular applications that enable the PC to tie in with networks utilizing both UMTS (universal mobile telecommunications system) and HSDPA (high speed download packet access) technology. By preloading software and hardware, the ThinkPad does not require a separate wireless modem card.
Dell and HP — Lenovo’s top two rivals in global computer sales — already offer wireless-enhanced laptops.
While used overseas, the Lenovo laptops can link to wireless networks offering EDGE (enhanced data global systems for mobile communications) or GPRS (general packet radio service) based services.
Cingular offers broadband speed wireless (UMTS/HSDPA) services in some 70 markets around the U.S. and plans to reach much of the country by the end of 2006. The PCs can also link to Cingular’s slower wireless data (UMTS) service that is available in many more existing markets.
“ThinkPad users can now enjoy wireless broadband Internet access via the Cingular BroadbandConnect service without needing a separate PC card or additional hardware,” said Scott Smith, president of Lenovo Americas. “The combination of Cingular’s technology and our ThinkVantage Technologies that simplify the connectivity process gives on-the-go users the ultimate portability with a punch.”
ThinkVantage is a set of software applications designed to improve PC efficiency and speed and also providing greater data protection.
The laptops, which are 1-inch thick, weigh 4.8 pounds.
Globally, UMTS network access is already available in 45 countries.
Cingular offers a global international data service beginning at $139.99 and a plan for use in North America at $109.99 per month.
For more information, see: www.lenovo.com/cingular
