AT&T Packs Some AGPS into New 3G USB Modem Dongles

Finally, AT&T has added a few fan favorite features into their mobile broadband dongles. These two new USB modems both have their benefits. The Option entrant is the USBConnect Velocity model, and is equipped with a flip out connector. The steel accented 3G dongle also adds the coveted AGPS technology. This allows cellphones to use highly available location sensing with fairly accurate location discovery. The cellular AGPS signals offer less accuracy than true GPS systems, but are much less finicky when it comes to finding a signal. AGPS systems only work well in areas blanketed by multiple towers for triangulation. Rural denizens will need to stick to true GPS.

The second model being released doesn't have the AGPS feature, but it is the speed demon of the two. Able to operate on the 7.2Mbps HSPA protocol where available, this should provide double the usual speed found in UMTS 3G areas. This model from LG, the USBConnect Turbo, comes with a rotating version of the flip out connector and looks almost as good as the Option option. They both have microSD slots for memory storage or digital camera card reading. Both are practically free with new activation and a 2 year contract and a data plan. AT&T has yet to release unsubsidized pricing for the pair but those seldom arrive until the device is ready for order which should be any day now.