View this article at: http://www.electronista.com/articles/09/07/06/att.3g.e.book.reader.leak/
Monday, Jul 06, 2009 9:30am
AT&T co-producing 3G e-book reader, more?
AT&T is in the midst of co-developing a trio of non-phone devices that will take advantage of its 3G network, a leak indicates. The carrier's signature device would be an e-book reader with built-in 3G data access, likely following a similar strategy to the Kindle that lets users download books without needing Wi-Fi or a physical connection. It's not said by the BW source who the manufacturer may be or whether the device's 3G access would be built into the cost like with Amazon's device, but it will reportedly ship by the end of the year.

Also on tap is a GPS navigator that uses 3G to pull real-time traffic data and an anti-speedtrap device that can send warnings of trap locations to other drivers in the area. All of the devices will be sold through AT&T's stores and, when 3G fees apply, may split revenues between AT&T and the companies making the devices.

AT&T has publicly acknowledged an effort to build 3G into more devices but, outside of netbook plans, has never discussed specific devices. All of its recent expansion is an attempt to move away from dependence on voice as faster 3G variants, and eventually 4G, put a far greater emphasis on data and will eventually turn phone calls into simple VoIP traffic.