We’ve had brushes with the PocketSurfer mobile internet device in the past, but here’s a look at the PocketSurfer 2R – an update to the PocketSurfer 2. If you haven’t heard of the PocketSurfer before, it’s kind of an odd device as it uses a way-slow Vodafone GPRS connection as its data conduit.
However, pages apparently load rather quickly and there’s no service charge for up to 20 hours of usage per month for the first year. After that, you pay £59.99 (about $100) per year for up to 20 hours per month. You can sign up for a £5.99 (about $10) per month unlimited plan as well. So it’s unique in that it’s a data device that uses slow data pipes and charges based on time, not downloads. Whether that’s unique in a good way is another story.
Web pages are served up from PocketSurfer’s own proxy servers, which use “patented data compression technology” that’s probably similar to how the early Sidekick devices worked over T-Mobile’s GPRS network. The PocketSurfer devices are only available in Europe but can be used in any country with a compatible GPRS network for 5 pence (9 cents) per minute. The PocketSurfer 2R costs £159 ($275).
Sorry for the auto-playing video, but it’s got a mind of its own…
[PocketSurfer 2R via Pocket-lint]
if your going to review something you might want to get the prices right….
its £29.99 for one year or £59.99 for lifetime usuage
Wrong !!!
If you are going to review a review you might want to get your facts straight too… its £40 annual subscription and £59.99 for lifetime of the product.
I have owned a Pocketsurfer 2 for just over a year now and have only just got used to the clumsy control buttons to a usable degree. im actually quite good with it. The backlit display was always its biggest let down for me. I planned to discard it when the year was up but received a message on it a few days ago offering me an upgrade promissing a touch pad curser in place of the arrows and an improved display. im going for it but will be sending it straight back if the display is anything less than a 50% improvement on the previous. it will also go back if like the last two i had previous to the one i own crumbles to pieces at the hinges. As for the much slated design, im one of the few that think its quiet sexy looking and feels nice in the hands. Will let you know how i get on with the 2R. Thanks for listening. Steve x
I agree with Steve, the hinge is awful. I to am replacing my old model with the 2R. I hope it’s better than the old one.