Qualcomm and Lenovo Group have announced that Lenovo will incorporate Qualcomm's new Gobi2000 technology into upcoming ThinkPad notebooks in the X, T and W Series beginning in 2010 to enable global 3G connectivity. The Gobi-equipped notebooks will provide business users with extensive wireless broadband access both domestically and internationally by leveraging the wide availability of both EV-DO and HSPA wireless networks around the world.
"Gobi mobile Internet connectivity will give our business PC users the convenience of using one simple, built-in device to provide mobile broadband access around the world," said Sam Dusi, vice president, worldwide ThinkPad product marketing, Lenovo. "This flexible, multi-carrier solution allows mobile workers to seamlessly connect to new broadband networks as they change locations, while simplifying the work of IT managers, to support users around the globe with a single laptop model."
Businesses deploying ThinkPad laptops with Gobi technology will be able to standardize on a single hardware platform that can be deployed globally. Each region has the flexibility to provision 3G connectivity on an as-needed basis and to their preferred carrier based on the coverage and pricing plans available in their area. If an employee relocates to a different region or is traveling outside the home coverage area, Gobi technology supports the ability to switch carriers without having to swap data cards and/or reinvest in a new laptop, reducing the costs to deploy 3G. Gobi technology also includes an integrated GPS receiver for enabling location-based services such as asset tracking, real-time data protection, geo-fencing and navigation.