The Hindu Business Line : Web access device for Rs 2,000!

As per the agreement, Datawind will develop and provide low-cost wireless Web access devices to Nasscom Foundation. It is working with the Foundation on an inter-face device. Trials on `Surfer box' are on and it will be available by March 2007.

New Delhi , Nov. 24

At a time when wireless broadband is all set to come into the country, Nasscom Foundation has signed an agreement with Canada-based Datawind Corporation for developing low-cost wireless computing and internet connectivity devices for as low as Rs 2,000 per unit.

The device will enable consumers to surf the Internet on the move.

As per the agreement, Datawind will develop and provide low-cost wireless web access devices to Nasscom Foundation for its various ICT projects in various States in the country.

The aim of the Nasscom projects include improving the reach, enhancing the base, minimising processing costs and increasing the transparency of electronic access of the state and district administration services to the rural areas.

Wireless Device

Mr Suneet Singh Tuli, Chief Executive officer (CEO), Datawind, said: "Datawind, which had introduced its award-winning `PocketSurfer'— a revolutionary wireless Web access device that provides the world's fastest and most affordable access to mobile internet for the first time in India".

Datawind is working on a device `Surfer box' in association with Nasscom Foundation, which will cost below Rs 2,000."

The trials for the interface box device are on and it will be available in the country by March 2007.

Datawind's other products in pipeline include wireless Web access laptop priced at Rs 16,000.

Its earlier product `PocketSurfer' provides desktop quality Web experience to consumers in the palm of their hand without connecting to a cellular phone or plugging into a landline modem.

"Users now have the power to access the Web anywhere and anytime, using the technology they desire based on cost and device needs and the `PocketSurfer' does all of this while offering a desktop-quality Web experience in a device small enough for a breast pocket or purse," Mr Tuli added.

Unlike mobile devices such as PDAs and cell phones, the PocketSurfer displays fully functional Web pages complete with images, scripts, colours, and plug-ins.

More Stories on : Broadband | Research & Development | Internet

Article E-Mail :: Comment :: Syndication :: Printer Friendly Page