Samsung Q1 Ultra HSDPA: UMPC broadband on the go

By Rory Reid on 19 December 2007, 1:12pm

We've just taken an exclusive first look at the brand new broadband-enabled Samsung Q1 Ultra HSDPA, and we're very excited. Unlike the original Q1 and Q1 Ultra, this new model lets you jump on the Internet from absolutely anywhere there's a mobile phone signal.

Samsung calls it 'Samsung Broadband Access', but the service is actually provided courtesy of an HSDPA-enabled SIM card nestling under the battery (not included, maddeningly). This means the Q1 Ultra works just like any Internet-ready mobile phone, but will reach download speeds of up to 10Mbps -- faster than most home broadband connections in the UK.

The rest of the device is identical to the original Q1 Ultra, which has its pros and cons. The thumb-operated split keyboard on either side of the 7-inch screen is fiddly as hell to operate, the mouse takes some getting used to, and the whole unit is actually quite large -- you'll need a bag to carry it in.

The biggest drawback is the price: it'll set you back £989.95 from eXpansys. It might come with a USB keyboard and organiser pack, but let's not forget, for the same money you could probably buy an Asus Eee PC for every member of your immediate family.

Specs-wise, we're looking at an 800MHz Intel A110 CPU, 1GB of DDR2 400MHz memory, a 60GB hard drive, Wi-Fi, and an approximate 4-hour battery life. Take a look at our light-hearted Q1 vs Newton feature and watch out for a full review in the coming days.

Update: A full review of the Samsung Q1 Ultra HSDPA is now available on the site. -Rory Reid