In a sanguine attempt to catch up with competitive services, T-Mobile has rolled out its new WebConnect USB Laptop Stick, which will be made available in some T-Mobile retail stores as well as online from March 25 onwards.

The small and convenient Huawei Technologies-manufactured modem - implying the first supply contract between the two companies - allows users the facility to hook up to the Web on their laptop using T-Mobile's 3G network or Wi-Fi. Furthermore, the device also allows the automatic identification of the best Internet link on hand, thanks to incorporation of the T-Mobile Connection Manager software.

Another feature is the tri-band 3G connectivity of the WebConnect laptop stick, facilitating its use on similarly attuned networks abroad. In case of unavailability of 3G coverage in a particular area, there is provision of WebConnect laptop stick's compatibility with GPRS/EDGE networks, which enables the users to get online.

Fitted with an 8GB card-capable microSD/SDHC extension slot, the T-Mobile WebConnect laptop stick has the twofold benefit of being a portable storage device too. The
3.5-inch tall, 1.1-inch wide and 0.4-inch thick accessory - which is quite like the AT&T USBConnect Mercury - has a swivel USB design; and weighs 1.5 ounces.

The pricing alternatives of the WebConnect laptop stick include - $99.99 with one-year contract; $49.99 with a two-year contract after rebate; or $249.99 with no contract.