Gadgets and Gizmos

Vodafone unveils ‘Stick’ HSDPA USB modem

Vodafone has announce its HSDPA USB modem called the ‘Stick’, providing fast internet on the go without having to pay for Wi-Fi hotspots. The Stick is compatible with Windows Vista and XP, and Mac OS X. Mac users will need to install the software from the included CD. When the CD is inserted the computer’s default web browser takes the user through the installation process then places the installed software within the “Applications” folder.

The new USB Modem Stick is Vodafone’s smallest and slimmest yet and is no larger than a standard USB flash drive. It really is tiny and lightweight and to say that it offers you full-fat internet connectivity anywhere there is mobile phone coverage makes you marvel at the wonders of tech today.

With the claim that it will work out the box, the Stick is compatible with both Windows - Vista and XP - and Mac OS X so we were interested to see just how quickly we could be up and running online. As well as more than 7Mbps for downloads, the network claims customers will enjoy upload speeds of up to 1.44Mbps.

“Vodafone was the first to improve download speeds with HSDPA, the first to increase upload speeds with HSUPA, and now we’re pushing the boundaries of usability even further with a groundbreaking compact design,” said Kyle Whitehill, Vodafone UK, Enterprise Director.

The upgraded 7.2 network is currently available in parts of central London, with coverage shortly to be extended to E1, E1W, E14, EC1, EC2, EC3, EC4, NW1, SW1, W1, W2, W8, W9, W10, W11, W14, WC1 and WC2 postcodes.

The ‘Stick’ is available on the £25 Mobile Broadband flat rate and prices for the device itself start from just £49 with an 18 month contract. Mobile Broadband customers signing up to a 24 month contract will receive three months free of charge.