Fujitsu is the latest vendor pushing notebooks that give you Internet without wires.
More good news for wireless Internet fans: Fujitsu says it's planning to make 3G broadband standard across its entire notebook range.
Fujitsu has already 3G-enabled a number of its notebooks including the tiny handheld S6510 and the Q2010, but more are on the way. A marketing representative told us the entire range will get the upgrade, including A6030, N6460, and E8410.
If you're buying a new notebook this year it's worth checking if it has wireless broadband. You can plug 3G modems from Optus, Telstra and Three into most notebooks, but having the SIM built-in means no lost modems or fiddly cords. The potential downside is not being able to take your 3G account with you if you switch notebooks and the new one doesn't have 3G.
Dell is leading the way, with wireless broadband as a build-to-order option on at least 12 notebooks. You can choose from Vodafone or Telstra, and the SIM comes with the notebook. ASUS is also offering 3.5G on its 14inch V2S notebook.
Toshiba's R400 tablet stands out because it has quad band wireless. In theory it should work with Telstra Next G, as well as other carriers.
Lenovo has gone with Vodafone for its 3G wireless in the past. Recently Ericsson announced plans to supply Lenovo with 3G modules for its notebooks, so time will tell whether this will mean new carrier options for Lenovo users.
Acer hasn't yet offered wireless broadband in its notebooks in Australia, though this may change. We spoke to an Acer representative who told us: "Acer will be bringing out notebooks with integrated wireless broadband by the second half of 2008. We will be releasing more details about this closer to the date." Apple also doesn't offer the feature either.
Is this a must-have? We'd say no – you can always add wireless to a notebook later with a USB modem. Still, with WiMax notebooks a way off, and 3G prices coming down, it's worth considering.