Mobile Computing News, Reviews, & Tips

Notebook Tip: Need a Hamburger Right Now?

A Wi-Fi-enabled notebook can get you out of all sorts of jams.

For example: You're at a hotel but don't know your surroundings well, and you're hungry. If you've installed Loki, a new, free browser toolbar, you can quickly find nearby restaurants as well as traffic conditions, weather, and more, says Laura Blackwell. Loki's "Find Me" feature determines your location with reasonable accuracy. Currently in beta, Loki is available for both Microsoft Internet Explorer and Mozilla Firefox.

Consumer Alert: Web Phone Woes

Every few months I start to think seriously about signing up for VoIP service. And then I come across more horror stories from consumers who, thinking they'll save money on their phone bills, end up spending more, getting less, and finding themselves in a world of woe. Granted, VoIP has many benefits, particularly for mobile professionals. But before you sign up, read Tom Spring's report.

If you'd like to take advantage of VoIP's advantages without actually switching over your number and getting locked into a service, read my recent columns on the topic:

• "VoIP Alternatives"
• "Voice Mail and E-Mail Together"
• "More VoIP Options"

Wireless News: Cingular's First HSDPA Phone

The LG CU500 is the first mobile phone that supports Cingular Wireless's new high-speed 3G network, called HSDPA. Cingular launched HSDPA in 2005, but to date only customers with notebooks and an HSDPA-compatible modem could use the broadband wireless service. Cingular's HSDPA network promises typical downstream speeds of 400 to 700 kilobits per second. The LG CU500 is available now for $100 with a two-year contract.

Suggestion Box

Is there a particularly cool mobile computing product or service I've missed? Got a spare story idea in your back pocket? Tell me about it. However, I regret that I'm unable to respond to tech-support questions, due to the volume of e-mail I receive.

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