The UbiSurfer (below) was first introduced last year, at which time it ran an unspecified version of Linux. But now, writes Daniel Robinson on V3.co.uk, the device is being shipped with Windows CE instead.

Datawind's UbiSurfer

Robinson quotes Datawind chief executive Suneet Tuli as saying, "Now, with the addition of Windows CE, our UbiSurfer customers can access a new Windows-compatible web browser and surf the internet using a clear and familiar interface." While further details of the browser were not provided, it's said the UbiSurfer now includes SoftMaker Office, a cross-platform suite that is compatible with Microsoft Office file formats.

Free Internet access

As our sister publication LinuxDevices.com noted when it first covered the UbiSurfer last year, wireless carriers have increasingly moved to a model of practically giving away netbooks in exchange for steep monthly fees and two year contracts.  Datawind is instead doing the opposite -- selling its devices at full cost, and then essentially giving away wireless Internet access. The difference is that Datawind is working with an "accelerated" version of GPRS instead of faster, but pricier 3G services.

Datawind processes Vodafone's GPRS data communications for the new devices through its own datacenter. The company uses a "patented acceleration technology" involving data compression technology, said to boost typically modest GPRS speeds significantly.

The acceleration technology not only speeds web access by five to seven seconds per page compared to regular GPRS speeds, but enables the company to offer 30 hours of free access per month for the first year in the U.K., claims the company. Low-cost roaming is said to be available in Europe and the U.S., Datawind adds.

Carryover hardware

In addition to the Vodafone-ready GPRS modem and SIM card, communications are available via WiFi and an Ethernet port. Datawind claims that web pages download in under seven seconds using the GPRS modem.

The 7-inch, 800 x 480 display lacks touchscreen support, but a full QWERTY keyboard and a touchball mouse pointer are provided. Weighing 700 grams (about 25 ounces), the netbook measures 8.7 x 6.5 x 1.2 inches and boasts either a piano black or rubberized matt finish, says the company.

Specifications listed for the UbiSurfer include:

• Processor -- ARM processor (type undisclosed)
• Memory -- 128MB RAM
• Display -- 7-inch TFT (800 x 480)
• Storage -- 1GB flash
• Expansion -- SD slot
• Networking:
  • WAN -- GPRS 900/1800Mhz
  • WLAN -- 802.11b/g
  • LAN -- 10/100 Ethernet
• Other I/O:
  • 3 x USB ports
  • Audio -- microphone; stereo speakers; earphone jack
• Dimensions -- 8.7 x 6.5 x 1.2 inches (222 x 165 x 29.5mm)
• Weight -- 24.7 oz (700g)
• Battery -- 4 hours active use; 4 hours standby

The UbiSurfer is available now, priced at 160 British Pounds (about $243). More information on the UbiSurfer may be found here.

The Datawind GPRS service is available with 30 hours per month free service for the first year, and 30 pounds ($45) for the second year with the same monthly limits. Unlimited usage is available for 6 Pounds (about $9) per month, and an unlimited plan for the product lifetime is available for 60 Pounds ($90), the company adds.

Daniel Robinson's article detailing the UbiSurfer's switch from Linux to Windows CE may be found here.

• $99 netbook runs Windows CE
• ARM netbook sells for $80
• "Green" netbook goes five hours
• Smartbook runs Windows CE 6.0
• $100 netbook runs Windows CE
• Microsoft turning its back on smartbooks?
• Chinese SoCs run Windows CE
• World's cheapest Linux-based laptop?
• Sub-$100 mini-laptop runs Windows
• Qualcomm tips new Scorpion chipset