Verizon and Sprint networks will provide the near-constant connections for advanced computers developed by Microsoft and Qualcomm, the tech companies announced Tuesday.
Six wireless companies worldwide will be the initial carriers to support “Always Connected PCs,” which will run on the Windows 10 operating system and Qualcomm’s Snapdragon Mobile PC platform.
Microsoft officials say the devices will behave more like a smartphone than a conventional computer, from near-instant start-up and constant wireless connections to a far longer battery life.
In addition to Verizon and Sprint in the U.S., Qualcomm’s announcement included China Telecom, Italy’s TIM and EE in the U.K. Their networks will support the devices’ wireless connections, and some companies will offer them for sale in their retail locations.
“With the support of our mobile operator partners, consumers now have the opportunity to enjoy super-fast connectivity over LTE networks at an affordable price, anytime and anywhere,” Microsoft’s Matt Barlow said in a statement.
Electronics companies Asus and HP announced new Always Connected PC products late last year, while Lenovo announced a third at CES in Las Vegas this week.
Qualcomm and Microsoft said that carriers would make announcements with further details, including the availability of the new devices, in the spring.
Filed Under: Carriers
