Smart unveils Google internet dongle

A local mobile telecommunications provider on Thursday showcased a prototype USB device with integrated access to Google services. At a press conference on Thursday, Smart Communications unveiled a prototype Smart Bro USB modem that will also feature integrated access to the Google Chrome web browser. "We see mobile internet usage as a huge growth driver [for our business], after SMS and voice calls. So we want to bring people onto the Internet," said Gio Bacareza, head for broadband Internet and data services at Smart's Wireless Consumer Division.

According to Bacareza, there are currently about 1 million users of Smart's mobile Internet services via USB dongles, excluding people who surf the Web via their mobile phones. "Market penetration is still small, so there's a lot of ground to be covered," he pointed out. "Google is excited to be working with Smart on this innovative distribution model that puts the Google Chrome web browser within easy reach of Filipino users," said Andrew McGlinchey, Google Southeast Asia's head of product management. Users of the product will be able to access the Web by double-clicking on the Google Chrome icon that automatically appears when the device is connected to a computer. Bacareza said that his team is looking to develop its own firmware for the dongle, to ensure smoother integration with Google services. He said that Smart is still negotiating this possibility with the device's OEM manufacturer. The device is planned for release sometime in November and is expected to be priced the same as Smart's other regular USB modem dongles. - GMANews.TV