Vodafone has announced the launch of a new USB modem stick for mobile broadband users, which plugs directly into laptops.

The latest model can now download speeds of up to 7.2 Mbps and is available on the company's mobile broadband flat rate, with prices for the device starting at £49.

The stick supports both Windows XP and Mac OSX.

Enterprise director for Vodafone UK Kyle Whitehall commented on the company's achievement, saying: "Vodafone was the first to improve download speeds with HSDPA, the first to increase upload speeds with HSUPA, and now we're pushing the boundaries of usability even further with a groundbreaking compact design."

However, the network is only currently available in parts of central London and at major airports.

Meanwhile, Dublin City Council has abandoned plans to launch free Wi-Fi throughout the city as, aside from financial concerns, the move would breach EU regulations on state aid.

Monday, 14th January 2008

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