Sony VAIO Z And Y Notebooks Get "Share My Connection" WiFi Router Functionality
Sharing a single data connection across multiple WiFi devices seems to be a growing trend these days, popularised by the MiFi mobile hotspots and then spreading to cellphones and now laptops. Sony has announced that their VAIO Z and Y series notebooks will have a "Share My Connection" (SMC) option, that when turned on allows up to five nearby devices to connect via WiFi.
The VAIO Z and Y Series notebooks will need to have an activated Verizon Wireless WWAN card in order to use SMC, which will be toggled on and off through the bundled SmartWi utility. As on other devices, there'll be password protection and a unique ID so as to prevent other people leaching your data allowance.
The Sony VAIO Z series kicks off from $1,950 and the VAIO Y series from $770; obviously you'll need to budget for a Verizon data plan too.
Press Release:
NEW SONY VAIO PCS DOUBLE AS WORLD'S FIRST MOBILE MULTIPLE HOTSPOTSSubject: Media Alert: VAIO Z and Y Series Laptops Act as Hotspots for Up to Five Devices
WHAT: The VAIO Z and Y Series PCs are the world's first out-of-the box laptops that act as a personal hotspot. Select models of these series feature the exclusive new Sony embedded wireless technology called Share My Connection™ (SMC). With SMC you can turn your laptop into a mobile wireless access point that can connect up to five other PCs or networked devices, such as smartphones, mp3 players, and cameras. A subscription is required.
WHO: A perfect built-in network solution for business travelers, those on-the-go or anyone looking to save some money by sharing a single network connection, Share My Connection is secure and lets you extend your connectivity with coworkers, friends, and family members.
The Z model offers premium portability and serious power. A breeze to carry at about 3.0 lbs, this PC features a durable carbon fiber and aluminum casing and delivers up to seven hours of battery life for true mobile freedom. It incorporates a 13.1-inch high-resolution LED backlit widescreen display, delivering a bright picture with 100 percent color saturation. The extremely thin unit also comes with an optical drive (Blu-ray optical drive optional).
Just in time for back-to-school season, the Y Series laptops comes in five new exciting colors including purple violet, fuchsia pink, pear green, teal blue and black. With a thin 1.2-inch profile and 13.3-inch LED backlit widescreen display, the sleek Y model offers lower power consumption for improved battery life for that active student lifestyle.
WHEN: Available now for pre-sale at www.sony.com/SMC and at select retailers around the country for about $770 for the VAIO Y Series and $1950 for the VAIO Z Series. To find the closest Sony Style store, please visit www.sonystyle.com.