India launches low-cost internet access device

Feb 4, 2009, 10:24 GMT

   New Delhi - India launched an inexpensive computing and internet access device Wednesday, as officials dismissed earlier reports that it would unveil the world's lowest-priced laptop computer, local media reported.

   The device was unveiled at the 'National Mission on Education through Information and Computer Technology' in the southern city of Tirupati on Tuesday, the Hindu newspaper reported.

   The 25-centimeter long, 15-centimeter wide hand-held device resembles a palmtop or a modem. Priced between 20 to 30 dollars, the device can store data as well and access the internet, but it must be connected to a monitor, mouse and keyboard.

Reports in the media earlier said Indian government would be unveiling a 10-dollar laptop computer as part of its plan to update technology used by Indian colleges and schools.

   But computer experts said that it was impossible to develop a laptop at such a low cost.

   In 2005, the One-Laptop per Child foundation developed 100-dollar laptops. But the production costs for the computer were revised and it costs 200 dollars currently.