Sprint, Verizon prep Novatel USB727 modem with microSD slot

Users of previous-generation USB modems from Sprint and Verizon -- the gargantuan USB720 comes immediately to mind -- know that they're a little on the portly side (and that's being kind). If you're going to have this huge mass hanging off the side of your lappie, it'd be nice if you could at least pack some additional functionality into it, right? Novatel appears to have heard both complaints, offering up the new USB727 in a significantly more attractive package that's nearly an inch shorter and half an inch narrower than its predecessor. Oh, and the "additional functionality" comes in the form of an integrated microSD slot supporting cards up to 4GB, making you feel a little less bad about having an unsightly black object protrude from your PC's otherwise clean lines. Naturally, the USB727 -- known simply as the U727 on Sprint -- supports both networks' EV-DO Rev. A airwaves, promising downlink speeds in the range of 600kbps to 1.4Mbps and uplink at a brisk 350 to 500kbps (that's Sprint's claim, anyway; Verizon says 500 to 800kbps). Verizon customers can pick it up online immediately for $100 after rebate on a two-year contract while Sprint gets it next month for "as low as" $80 on contract.

Read - Verizon USB727
Read - Sprint U727 (press release)

[Garrett @ Sep 28th 2007 7:58AM]

"downlink" speed is listed twice, but no uplink :o

[trinitymlk @ Sep 28th 2007 12:29PM]

Greetings Garrett,

Upon launch, upload speeds for this modem will range from 350 to 500 Kbps (with peak speeds of 1.8 Mbps)

Thanks, MK

[Garrett @ Sep 28th 2007 4:52PM]

I know, I was just FYI-ing the Endgadget crew :)

[tenzintsewang @ Sep 28th 2007 10:14AM]

if only this had gsm and vzw offer is as one of their global card :(

[ashley m @ Oct 18th 2007 5:50PM]

One bit of information tha was not mentioned the connection mananger software is built in to the U727 no CD is required to install. In addition this card also works with the wallet sized cradlepoint mobile router to share your connection with other people.The U727 can be found for just $29.99 at http://moremobileinternet.com/u727