http://apcmag.com/ APC Magazine covers the latest in computing with a critical, independent eye to help you make the most of your tech dollar. http://apcmag.com//internode-releases-microsim-plans-for-ipad-3g.htm http://apcmag.com//internode-releases-microsim-plans-for-ipad-3g.htm

The SA-based ISP becomes Australia’s first 3G reseller to offer iPad 3G microSIM plans, starting at $15 per month for 500MB on the Optus network.]]> Tue, 22 Jun 2010 22:12:28 +1000 http://apcmag.com//netcomm-launches-299-personal-hotspot-for-wi-fi-ipad-models.htm http://apcmag.com//netcomm-launches-299-personal-hotspot-for-wi-fi-ipad-models.htm

The first Next G-compatible ‘pocket hotspot’ to hit the Aussie market, NetComm’s $299 MyZone turns Next G and 3G signals into short-range 802.11g wireless.]]> Mon, 31 May 2010 14:11:01 +1000 http://apcmag.com//ipad-3g-telstra-next-g-optus-vodafone-three-3-vha-test-network.htm http://apcmag.com//ipad-3g-telstra-next-g-optus-vodafone-three-3-vha-test-network.htm

We put Telstra, Optus, Vodafone and 3 to the test in Australia’s first comparison of iPad 3G providers – and if you expect Next G to be fastest, the results will surprise you!]]> Fri, 28 May 2010 09:24:00 +1000 http://apcmag.com//wrapup-ipad-3g-plans.htm http://apcmag.com//wrapup-ipad-3g-plans.htm

iPad launch day is upon us, and if you're shelling out for the 3G model you're going to need a prepaid data card to go along with it. Here's a rundown of your options.]]> Thu, 27 May 2010 21:54:00 +1000 http://apcmag.com//acer-tablet-slate-android-chrome.htm http://apcmag.com//acer-tablet-slate-android-chrome.htm

Acer unveils a 7 inch colour touchscreen tablet running Google Android OS, expects the slate to launch in October and says “this is no longer a Wintel world”.]]> Thu, 27 May 2010 20:40:00 +1000 http://apcmag.com//3g-options-for-the-wi-fi-ipad.htm http://apcmag.com//3g-options-for-the-wi-fi-ipad.htm

If you’re buying one of the cheaper iPad Wi-Fi models there are still a few ways to enjoy Internet access anywhere without stumping up the extra money for a 3G version.]]> Thu, 27 May 2010 16:58:51 +1000 http://apcmag.com//apple-ipad-telstra-optus-prepaid-microsim-broadband-plan.htm http://apcmag.com//apple-ipad-telstra-optus-prepaid-microsim-broadband-plan.htm

Telstra and Optus confirm their respective iPad microSIM prepaid broadband starter kits will go on sale days ahead of the iPad’s launch this Friday.]]> Mon, 24 May 2010 17:49:26 +1000 http://apcmag.com//telstras-live-trial-of-dual-channel-next-g-kicks-up-to-22mbps.htm http://apcmag.com//telstras-live-trial-of-dual-channel-next-g-kicks-up-to-22mbps.htm

The world’s first live over-the-air test of ‘dual channel’ 3G HSPA+ on Telstra’s Next G network doubles download speeds to 22Mbps ‘under controlled conditions’.]]> Wed, 19 May 2010 15:43:46 +1000 http://apcmag.com//optus-spruiks-business-class-ipad-3g-plans-with-100-300-ipad-rebate.htm http://apcmag.com//optus-spruiks-business-class-ipad-3g-plans-with-100-300-ipad-rebate.htm

Optus is making a play for business users of the iPad 3G with microSIM ‘BYO mobile broadband plans’ – and adding a ‘cash back rebates’ of $100 to $300 on Apple’s slate.]]> Wed, 19 May 2010 09:15:00 +1000 http://apcmag.com//samsung-n220-3g-netbook-bundles-with-optus-from-50month.htm http://apcmag.com//samsung-n220-3g-netbook-bundles-with-optus-from-50month.htm

Samsung’s Atom ‘Pinetrail’-based netbook packs 12 hour battery life with Optus dual-band 2100MHz and 900MHz 3G.]]> Wed, 19 May 2010 07:00:00 +1000 http://apcmag.com//optus-to-allow-ipad-3g-data-rollover-up-to-15gb-up-to-six-months.htm http://apcmag.com//optus-to-allow-ipad-3g-data-rollover-up-to-15gb-up-to-six-months.htm

Optus confirms that data rollover will be available across all of its nine ‘microSIM’ prepaid iPad 3G plans, with as much as 15GB able to be carried over for six months at a time.]]> Wed, 19 May 2010 07:00:00 +1000 http://apcmag.com//telstra-apple-ipad-3g-nextg-prepaid-plans-data-rollover.htm http://apcmag.com//telstra-apple-ipad-3g-nextg-prepaid-plans-data-rollover.htm

Telstra will permit unused data on its pre-paid iPad 3G plans to be carried forward into the following month rather than expire at the 30 day use-by period, but there’s a catch...]]> Tue, 18 May 2010 07:40:00 +1000 http://apcmag.com//apple-ipad-australian-launch-date.htm http://apcmag.com//apple-ipad-australian-launch-date.htm

Too many orders or not enough iPads? Either way, if you haven't already placed your pre-order for the iPad you'll have to wait until at least June 8th for delivery. ]]> Thu, 13 May 2010 10:49:34 +1000 http://apcmag.com//telcos-bait-the-hook-with-ipad-3g-plans.htm http://apcmag.com//telcos-bait-the-hook-with-ipad-3g-plans.htm

Apple’s decision to sell the iPad as an unlocked device for prepaid 3G sees carriers eagerly competing for customers who can easily sample and switch networks.]]> Wed, 12 May 2010 14:58:33 +1000 http://apcmag.com//apple-ipad-3g-optus-prepaid-plans.htm http://apcmag.com//apple-ipad-3g-optus-prepaid-plans.htm

Optus 'microSIM' plans for the iPad 3G kick off at $15 for 500MB, stretch to $130 for 14GB, with expiry periods ranging from 15 days to six months.]]> Tue, 11 May 2010 12:07:49 +1000 http://apcmag.com//apple-ipad-3g-optus-plans-prepaid.htm http://apcmag.com//apple-ipad-3g-optus-plans-prepaid.htm

Optus will offer month-by-month 3G plans for the Apple iPad starting at $20 for 2GB, along with prepaid plans.]]> Sun, 09 May 2010 13:43:12 +1000 http://apcmag.com//apple-ipad-3g-telstra-next-g-plans-prepaid.htm http://apcmag.com//apple-ipad-3g-telstra-next-g-plans-prepaid.htm

Telstra reveals its prepaid Next G plans for Apple's 3G iPad, spanning from $20 for 1GB to $100 for 12GB, all with 30 day expiry.]]> Sun, 09 May 2010 12:25:28 +1000 http://apcmag.com//price-shock-set-for-aussie-ipad.htm http://apcmag.com//price-shock-set-for-aussie-ipad.htm

As Apple gears up to announce the iPad’s local pricing the Aussie dollar plummets to under US88c, and Web stats indicate at least one in ten iPads sold in the US are used overseas.]]> Fri, 07 May 2010 10:43:16 +1000 http://apcmag.com//vodafone-and-3-to-offer-dedicated-ipad-3g-plans.htm http://apcmag.com//vodafone-and-3-to-offer-dedicated-ipad-3g-plans.htm

VHA is first to confirm they'll back the iPad 3G – but will Aussie carriers also adopt subsidised contracts alongside Apple’s prepaid model in the US?]]> Thu, 15 Apr 2010 11:34:38 +1000 http://apcmag.com//intel-pushes-warp-speed-wireless-broadband-with-wimax-2.htm http://apcmag.com//intel-pushes-warp-speed-wireless-broadband-with-wimax-2.htm

Second-gen WiMAX standard will be built for peak throughput of over 300Mbps, with lower latency and increased VoIP capability for the ‘landline replacement’ market.]]> Thu, 15 Apr 2010 08:00:00 +1000 http://apcmag.com//intel-working-with-vivid-on-australia-wide-wimax-network.htm http://apcmag.com//intel-working-with-vivid-on-australia-wide-wimax-network.htm

Intel says it’s excited by the arrival of WiMAX network in Perth and is working with the wireless telco towards a nationwide network.]]> Mon, 12 Apr 2010 15:00:00 +1000 http://apcmag.com//vodafone-and-3-to-offer-month-by-month-mobile-broadband.htm http://apcmag.com//vodafone-and-3-to-offer-month-by-month-mobile-broadband.htm

New plans sit between prepaid and contract deals, starting at $15/month for 1GB with BYO modem, but they’re not for everyone…]]> Mon, 12 Apr 2010 09:45:00 +1000 http://apcmag.com//vodafone-ipad-3g.htm http://apcmag.com//vodafone-ipad-3g.htm

Vodafone says it is in discussion with Apple but remains guarded on what type of plans it will offer for the 3G iPad.]]> Tue, 09 Mar 2010 14:00:00 +1000 http://apcmag.com//apple-pushes-back-aussie-release-of-ipad.htm http://apcmag.com//apple-pushes-back-aussie-release-of-ipad.htm

Apple says the the Wi-Fi version of the iPad will now arrive at the end of next month instead of its previously promised “late March” timeframe (oh, and we have leaked pricing).]]> Sat, 06 Mar 2010 11:19:09 +1000 http://apcmag.com//3g-ipad-arrives-in-australia-in-april.htm http://apcmag.com//3g-ipad-arrives-in-australia-in-april.htm

Steve Jobs tipped mid-year for international release of the 3G iPad, but Apple Australia has it lined up for local launch in the next eight weeks.]]> Thu, 25 Feb 2010 14:06:43 +1000 http://apcmag.com//david-spence-to-leave-unwired.htm http://apcmag.com//david-spence-to-leave-unwired.htm

The stalwart CEO of Unwired, one of the first wireless broadband networks, is to leave the company, as its owner, Channel 7 makes clear its future plans lie with vividwireless.]]> Mon, 22 Feb 2010 15:38:55 +1000 http://apcmag.com//telstra-gears-up-for-ipads-boost-to-prepaid-next-g.htm http://apcmag.com//telstra-gears-up-for-ipads-boost-to-prepaid-next-g.htm

Telstra sees the forthcoming release of the iPad as a pick-me-up for pre-paid mobile broadband.]]> Wed, 17 Feb 2010 02:30:00 +1000 http://apcmag.com//telstra-dual-carrier-42mbps-smartphones-over-a-year-away.htm http://apcmag.com//telstra-dual-carrier-42mbps-smartphones-over-a-year-away.htm

Smartphones built to take advantage of Telstra’s twin-channel Next G network won’t arrive until at least 2011, says Telstra exec.]]> Wed, 17 Feb 2010 02:00:00 +1000 http://apcmag.com//telstra-boosts-real-world-next-g-data-speeds-to-8mbps.htm http://apcmag.com//telstra-boosts-real-world-next-g-data-speeds-to-8mbps.htm

A ‘dual carrier’ upgrade to Telstra’s Next G network will use two data channels to double network speed to 42MBs for real-world rates in excess of 8Mbps.]]> Mon, 15 Feb 2010 17:59:06 +1000 http://apcmag.com//vivid-wireless-to-build-wimax-nationwide-in-australia.htm http://apcmag.com//vivid-wireless-to-build-wimax-nationwide-in-australia.htm

Australia's role as one of the best wireless connected countries in the world is set to continue, with Channel 7 announcing it would build a WiMax network nationally.]]> Thu, 11 Feb 2010 12:47:53 +1000 http://apcmag.com//telstra-ceo-iphone-tethering-for-next-g-coming-soon.htm http://apcmag.com//telstra-ceo-iphone-tethering-for-next-g-coming-soon.htm

Better late than never, Telstra boss David Thodey says the carrier is working with Apple to enable Next G tethering on the iPhone.]]> Fri, 20 Nov 2009 13:16:54 +1000 http://apcmag.com//dse-offers-dell-mini-9-3g-netbooks-unlocked-for-549.htm http://apcmag.com//dse-offers-dell-mini-9-3g-netbooks-unlocked-for-549.htm

It’s not the newest netbook on the market but at $549 with an inbuilt and unlocked 3G modem the pint-sized Mini 9 is a pretty sweet deal...]]> Mon, 16 Nov 2009 11:00:00 +1000 http://apcmag.com//optus-pulls-a-swifty-with-new-mobile-broadband-plans.htm http://apcmag.com//optus-pulls-a-swifty-with-new-mobile-broadband-plans.htm

Lower prices, more data and cheaper modems – Optus’ revised wireless broadband plans are all good, until your monthly data allowance is halved after 12 months...]]> Sat, 24 Oct 2009 17:00:00 +1000 http://apcmag.com//vodafone-cuts-prepaid-mobile-broadband-to-99-doubles-data-to-1gb.htm http://apcmag.com//vodafone-cuts-prepaid-mobile-broadband-to-99-doubles-data-to-1gb.htm

Vodafone’s Prepaid Mobile Broadband Starter Pack now sells at $99 and throws in 1GB of data for the bundled dual-band USB modem.]]> Tue, 06 Oct 2009 16:03:08 +1000 http://apcmag.com//aussie-home-broadband-connections-tip-past-the-50-mark.htm http://apcmag.com//aussie-home-broadband-connections-tip-past-the-50-mark.htm

Despite one in every two Australian homes having a fixed broadband connection, we barely make it into the Top 20 list of countries with the highest penetration of home broadband.]]> Tue, 06 Oct 2009 00:21:46 +1000 http://apcmag.com//free-netbooks-linux-can-make-that-happen-faster.htm http://apcmag.com//free-netbooks-linux-can-make-that-happen-faster.htm

Telcos are starting to think about the money that can be made from giving away "free" netbooks with mobile broadband services -- and Linux is helping make this a reality.]]> Fri, 03 Jul 2009 13:15:00 +1000 http://apcmag.com//prepaid-wireless-mobile-broadband-optus-telstra-three-and-vodafone-compared.htm http://apcmag.com//prepaid-wireless-mobile-broadband-optus-telstra-three-and-vodafone-compared.htm

Vodafone has joined its rivals in offering 3G wireless broadband to prepaid customers. So which telco offers the best value for your ‘pay as you go’ mobile broadband buck?]]> Mon, 04 May 2009 21:57:02 +1000 http://apcmag.com//optus-releases-capped-one-plan-for-voice-broadband-and-3g-wireless-kinda-sorta.htm http://apcmag.com//optus-releases-capped-one-plan-for-voice-broadband-and-3g-wireless-kinda-sorta.htm

The ‘Total Business Cap’ is actually a combo of two separate capped plans – one for voice, the other for data – but at least they come on a single bill.]]> Mon, 27 Apr 2009 21:43:38 +1000 http://apcmag.com//internode-adds-3g-wireless-data-to-its-broadband-menu.htm http://apcmag.com//internode-adds-3g-wireless-data-to-its-broadband-menu.htm

The popular ISP’s new NodeMobile Data plans repackage Optus 3G from $15 per month for 250MB, with excess usage blocks starting at $10 for 250MB.]]> Mon, 27 Apr 2009 12:01:36 +1000 http://apcmag.com//mobile-broadband-busts-loose.htm http://apcmag.com//mobile-broadband-busts-loose.htm

Vodafone’s new 900MHz 3G network and Three’s roaming deal with Next G help mobile broadband stay connected beyond the ‘big smoke’.]]> Thu, 16 Apr 2009 21:33:45 +1000 http://apcmag.com//virgin_broadband_pulled_from_retail_sale.htm http://apcmag.com//virgin_broadband_pulled_from_retail_sale.htm

Virgin Mobile has pulled its wireless broadband service — provided via the Optus 3G mobile network — from general retailers like Dick Smith. ]]> Fri, 07 Nov 2008 21:10:45 +1000 http://apcmag.com//google_ceo_wants_to_be_obama_tech_chief.htm http://apcmag.com//google_ceo_wants_to_be_obama_tech_chief.htm

Google CEO Eric Schmidt, who campaigned for US President Elect Barack Obama, may be in line for the tech chief spot on Obama's team. ]]> Thu, 06 Nov 2008 10:15:08 +1000 http://apcmag.com//dell_unveils_12_inch_vista_netbook_for_999.htm http://apcmag.com//dell_unveils_12_inch_vista_netbook_for_999.htm

The Inspiron Mini 12 packs a big screen (and Windows Vista) into a thin and light chassis, but Dell says the upcoming 3G broadband card is why Linux remains missing from the menu.]]> Mon, 27 Oct 2008 13:00:00 +1000 http://apcmag.com//telstra_chops_wireless_broadband_prices__again.htm http://apcmag.com//telstra_chops_wireless_broadband_prices__again.htm

Telstra has scrapped excess usage fees and bumped up download allowances on a selection of its Next G mobile broadband plans.]]> Mon, 20 Oct 2008 14:45:27 +1000 http://apcmag.com//monash_university_and_vodafone_provide_wifi_on_the_school_bus.htm http://apcmag.com//monash_university_and_vodafone_provide_wifi_on_the_school_bus.htm

Uni students will be the first in Australia to get free HSDPA & WiFi while the wheels on the bus go round and round.]]> Thu, 16 Oct 2008 13:00:00 +1000 http://apcmag.com//vodafone_trims_mobile_broadband_prices.htm http://apcmag.com//vodafone_trims_mobile_broadband_prices.htm

But 3’s plans still offer the most data for your dollar, while concerns over Vodafone’s network performance remain.]]> Thu, 09 Oct 2008 15:00:00 +1000 http://apcmag.com//double_the_price_optus_hikes_wireless_charges.htm http://apcmag.com//double_the_price_optus_hikes_wireless_charges.htm

Optus has hiked the prices of its prepaid wireless broadband service -- up to double the price on some plans -- just weeks after launching the service.]]> Tue, 07 Oct 2008 11:31:10 +1000 http://apcmag.com//optus_dumps_wireless_fusion_bundles.htm http://apcmag.com//optus_dumps_wireless_fusion_bundles.htm

As criticism of its 3G service mounts, Optus has quietly ditched the 3G wireless version of its Fusion broadband and telephony plans.]]> Wed, 17 Sep 2008 14:25:40 +1000 http://apcmag.com//its_a_miracle_bigpond_slashes_wireless_prices.htm http://apcmag.com//its_a_miracle_bigpond_slashes_wireless_prices.htm

It was miraculous enough when Telstra's controversial PR chief Phil Burgess announced he was leaving; now Telstra has dropped pricing on wireless broadband significantly.]]> Fri, 22 Aug 2008 11:13:09 +1000 http://apcmag.com//sting_in_the_tail_for_optus_prepaid_wireless_broadband_plans.htm http://apcmag.com//sting_in_the_tail_for_optus_prepaid_wireless_broadband_plans.htm

Optus' new prepaid wireless broadband plans look good on the surface but come with a nasty sting in the tail.]]> Mon, 18 Aug 2008 00:01:00 +1000 http://apcmag.com//3_cuts_the_cable_with_directconnect_usb_modem.htm http://apcmag.com//3_cuts_the_cable_with_directconnect_usb_modem.htm

Mobile broadband just got a little less fiddly, with 3 introducing a slim 3G HSDPA modem which plugs straight into your notebook’s USB port.]]> Fri, 23 May 2008 13:48:00 +1000 http://apcmag.com//indepth_review_virgin_broadbands_home_hsdpa_broadband_service.htm http://apcmag.com//indepth_review_virgin_broadbands_home_hsdpa_broadband_service.htm

In the past few days I've been writing about how Virgin Broadband has the potential tobreak Telstra's landline monopoly. But if you've been itching to know how the service performs in real life, read on...]]> Sat, 28 Jul 2007 13:56:08 +1000 http://apcmag.com//inflight_internet_lives_again_qantas_introduces_wireless_broadband_laptop_power_in_all_classes.htm http://apcmag.com//inflight_internet_lives_again_qantas_introduces_wireless_broadband_laptop_power_in_all_classes.htm

Laptop power will be available in every seat of Qantas' new international Airbus A380s, as well as some 747-400s. Seats will also feature USB and Ethernet ports and seat-back email]]> Tue, 24 Jul 2007 00:55:35 +1000