Europe UK : Orange announced a partnership with the leading European IT manufacturer, Fujitsu Siemens Computers. Under this agreement, the companies will collaborate to provide UK laptop buyers with access to the latest embedded SIM technology. Built in datacards provide instant access to mobile data networks for laptop users, removing the need for external data cards and complex software support.
The Orange partnership with Fujitsu Siemens Computers will enable remote access to both 3G and next-generation 3G+ 'mobile broadband' networks, ensuring the fastest-possible data connections for mobile workers. Fujitsu Siemens Computers laptops will be tested and certified by Orange for compatibility with its own mobile data benchmarks. Supporting Orange information will be delivered alongside computers, helping customers take immediate advantage of these services. Crucially, Fujitsu Siemens Computers customers will not be permanently SIM-locked to the Orange network. If customers wish to change operator in the future, their hardware investments will not be rendered obsolete - an important consideration for companies that manage contracts with multiple mobile operators.
Neither will a premium be charged for PCs equipped with this technology, unlike some rivals. "Orange Business Services' agreement with Fujitsu Siemens Computers will create the most intelligent built in datacard offering to date in the UK market," explains Neil Laidler, Vice President Business Services, Orange UK. "Our research indicates that customers simply aren't attracted by the prospect of being locked to a single operator for all their mobility needs. This agreement will make it as easy as possible for Fujitsu Siemens Computers customers to access Orange's best-of-breed built in datacard service - but customers will also be free to choose other mobile operators in the future, without the need to buy new hardware or face the complex task of 'unlocking' existing laptops. This isn't the case with certain alternative offerings from our rival operators."
The first laptops to benefit from this partnership - Fujitsu Siemens Computers' popular LIFEBOOK E range - are available now to be purchased. The Orange range of external Business Everywhere datacards remains unaffected by this launch. "Mobility has always been a strategic pillar of the Fujitsu Siemens Computers success story and this deal is a natural extension of this strategy," adds George Sebastian, head of UK mobile PC marketing, Fujitsu Siemens Computers.
"Adding this embedded SIM capability means the award-winning LIFEBOOK offers an unrivalled package for professional users needing their information on the move." "Whilst many companies are looking to streamline their mobile operator relationships and simplify technology choices through closer integration, they also want to keep their options open as technology and services evolve," comments Rob Bamforth, principal analyst, Quocirca. "Embedding different forms of connectivity in the end-user device is attractive, but especially if there is no threat of 'operator handcuffs' ".
