04th Sep 2003
Linux Laptop to Cell/Mobile?
I have a semi-urgent need to figure out a bit of connectivity …
I have a laptop that can run Linux or Windows. When I am not near a Wifi hotspot, I want to be able to connect to the Internet via a cell phone, preferably via Linux.
Oh, and I happen to be in the market for a new cell phone, and a new provider. Unlimited data minutes preferred, and connectivity in the SF Bay Area and New York City a must (meaning: some nationwide plan, not something where data works in one place, but not another)
I find the process of navigating through phones and plans to be something akin to seeking the Holy Grail (this is where we go into Monty Python mode). Each provider has their own set of rules, claims, puffery, and outright lies. Some phones have special “really small, cutesy, breaks if you look at it wrong” or “drains battery extra quick” attributes. Some providers have special “New York Minute” plans, where they tick off every 27 seconds. I’m half expecting to see a “save 20% if you dial on odd-numbered minutes” plan any day now.
Gotta wonder what Alexander Graham Bell would think of the state of all things phone.
Any recommendations? (IR, cable, or Bluetooth - doesn’t matter to me).
