HP, Cingular launch "global notebook"

Forget the world phone – the cool kids are gonna want the world notebook.

HP and Cingular Wireless today launched a notebook PC in the U.S. that features "built-in global mobile broadband capabilities." The latest HP Compaq nc6400 notebook will include integrated Cingular Wireless UMTS/HSDPA-based connectivity, which means business users will be able to connect to a high-speed wireless data network in more than 115 countries that support the UMTS or GPRS/EDGE network. HP says the notebook includes a tri-band UMTS modem that supports data rates of up to 3.6Mbps in the U.S. and other countries. In the U.S., Cingular's UMTS/HSDPA network is currently available in 145 metropolitan areas, including 65 of the top 100 largest cities in 33 states, Cingular says. Average download speeds range from 400Kbps to 700KBps, with 1Mbps bursts.

The notebook will include integrated dual antennas and bundled Cingular software (Cingular Communication Manager) to help users establish a wireless connection. In addition to the wireless WAN connection, the nc6400 will include WLAN and Bluetooth connections. The notebook includes a 14.1-inch display, Intel Core 2 Duo processors, and support for 3D graphics.

The notebook is expected to be available in late December, with a $1,599 starting point. Unlimited Cingular Broadband Connect service will cost $59.99 per month, with international plans available. Cingular says a North American plan of 100MB for $109 per month allows for access to Canada and Mexico, as well as unlimited domestic data access. A global plan of $139 per month for 100MB of data covers more than 24 countries worldwide, as well as unlimited U.S. access.