Orange runs out of laptops, now offers free broadband deal

Mobile broadband would appear to be the technology of choice given that Orange, along with other mobile operators, has sold out of the laptops they are bundling with the deal.

Orange says the Asus and HP laptops should become available when new stock arrives next week, with new and upgraded models becoming available at the same time. The UK director of retail sales said she had been amazed at the demand for the service, which included a 3GB data allowance and 100 texts per month from the laptop.

Looking to further capitalise on this business opportunity, and to compete with BT's newly launched free mobile broadband offer, Orange is now also offering free mobile broadband access to small businesses who sign up for the company's Solo service.

Last week, France Telecom Orange said it was looking to sign a strategic agreement with HP early next year that would see Orange offering laptops with mobile broadband in certain countries in Europe, Africa and the Middle East.

To add more flames to this fire, LG is expected to unveil its low-cost netbook next month, and there are widespread rumours that Apple will launch a netbook in the near future.

For more on this story:
- go to Mobile News and Tech Watch

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