As we've noted, FreedomPop plans to try and disrupt the current wireless carrier ecosystem by selling users a $99 case that turns the iPod Touch into a mobile VoIP phone, all running over the Clearwire network. The service, which is being aimed at a younger set less dependent on reliability, offers users 500 MB of free data a month -- up to 1 GB if they participate in referrals or promotions. A public beta launched October 1, and in addition to the iPod sleeve, users can buy a $50 USB modem (Bolt), and a $90 mobile hotspot (Photon).
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FreedomPop has been taking pre-orders for the iPod sleeve since May, and according to a company press release, FreedomPop has started shipping the $99 sleeve to customers.
"Until today, the iPod touch has been a Wi-Fi only device. As of today, consumers can now receive fast and free Internet for their iPod on-the-go," said Mauricio Sastre, Vice President Product, FreedomPop. "By leveraging a VoIP app such as Skype, the iPod touch essentially becomes a carrier-free option that allows consumers to enjoy an iPhone-like experience without signing contracts or paying monthly fees."
While that all sounds great, early reviews of both the sleeve and the service have been mixed, with several users telling me their experiences have been sub par, with consistent connectivity issues cropping up. That is not uncommon for a beta, and we'll be interested to see user impressions as the service becomes more widely available.
Source: http://www.dslreports.com/forums/all
