Tata DoCoMo has launched an Internet access device that allows subscribers to jump between three different technologies.
With this portable device, customers can stay connected on a 3G network across nine circles where Tata DoCoMo had won spectrum and in other areas the same device can be used to connect to Tata's CDMA-based data network or Wi-Fi wherever available.
The device, supplied by ZTE, also allows multiple users to connect to the Internet at the same time.
The device is priced at Rs 5,999 and is available across Tata DoCoMo and Tata Photon stores. It allows subscribers to get speed up to 7.2 Mbps in the 3G mode, and up to 3.1Mbps in the CDMA mode.
Two plans
There are two plans available — one with a monthly rental of Rs 750 and the other with a rental of Rs 1,000. In the first plan, customers get data usage of 2GB. Post the 2 GB being consumed, customers will have to pay 50 paise per MB for additional data usage. The Rs 1,000 plan comes with 5GB of data usage.
Post exhausting this 5GB, customers can enjoy unlimited data usage under the ‘throttle option', wherein surfing speeds will be determined by user location, number of people accessing the network and device configuration.
With this product, Tata Teleservices is hoping to provide nationwide data connectivity for its 3G subscribers.
The company has 3G spectrum in only 9 circles and, therefore, roaming could have been an issue. This new device takes care of the problem in a way although the speeds drop down on the CDMA mode.
Breakthrough in wi-fi space
Mr Deepak Gulati, Executive President, Mobility Business, Tata Teleservices Ltd, said: “This portable device signals a breakthrough in the Wi-Fi space and is yet another first-of-its-kind product, offering dual Internet access technology. The sleek new product will be especially relevant in the context of today's fast-evolving and changing products, most of which are Wi-Fi-enabled — laptops, desktops, i-Pads, mobile phones, even digital camera.