which 3g mobiles allow me to connect a laptop

JimArnold

Looking for a new phone and fancy some mobile computing as well.
Now I know I can buy a usb modem thing and connect my laptop but I notice that according to M R that the HTC touch allows a laptop connection

when I have a laptop handy I'd much rather use its better leyboard and screen but want the portability of a phoine as well

so which other phones offer this facility ? and do I need an extra cable ?

redux

Most phones can be connected to a laptop, even older 2g ones

You need the manufacturer's software, e.g. Nokia PC Suite, either downloaded or on a CD with the phone. I understand that the iPhone cannot be used as a modem, or at least that program(s) to do so were added then removed by Apple

The lead may come with the phone, fairly likely with an up-market one you'd be synchronising stuff on anyway, or be a slightly over-priced optional extra. But if the phone end is a small USB socket then you may find a standard one cheaper elsewhere

But the phone contract will be the thing to look at - some allow laptop use and some say in theory they do not, though people may have tried out the latter without problems. And then there are fair use policies on data option packages ...

diamonds

3 dont bother, its in their T&C its a no but I used mine for 2 years to do so

Celini

diamonds wrote: »

3 dont bother, its in their T&C its a no but I used mine for 2 years to do so

agree, it is against their T&C, but anyway they can't check it...
bear in mind the fair usage policy is 1GB, when you reach it they will send you a text threatening to suspend your line if you use internet before the next bill ussue date...

you indeed need a cable to connect the mobile to the computer and use it as a modem

C

baldelectrician

I have a N95 and I can use it as a modem on holiday (inside UK)

I got around 460Kbps whish was excellent for browsing. Just made sure I didn't do any updates or download big files.

If you want a decent download speed my personal preference would be towards the newer N series Nokias

If you can look for one with wifi and 3.5G (Edge / HSDPA). These phones are not cheap.

Hope this helps