China Mobile Reveals TD-SCDMA Netbook Strategy
Netease Tech, 4/08/09
A source has revealed that China Mobile (NYSE: CHL; 0941.HK) is preparing to classify TD-SCDMA netbooks into three categories – A, B, and C – based on the amount of carrier subsidy and the partnership model adopted by China Mobile and the manufacturer.
Thus far, more than 20 models of netbook from more than 10 manufacturers have successfully passed China Mobile testing, landing them in the "passing" category (category C), while Lenovo (0992.HK), Founder (600601.SH), Tsinghua Tongfang (600100.SH), Haier, HP, and Dell have had netbooks rated as "good quality" (category B). Manufacturers of category B notebooks will provide exclusive custom-manufactured netbooks to China Mobile. Last Friday, China Mobile held trials for category A ("outstanding") netbooks; results have yet to be released. Category A netbook manufacturers will conduct "deep marketing and sales" with China Mobile, including joint marketing and promotional activities nationwide. In addition, netbooks of different categories will be sold through different channels: higher-ranking netbooks will be sold through China Mobile's and the manufacturers' own channels.
Keywords: 0941.HK 0992.HK 600100.SH 600601.SH China Mobile CHL Dell Haier HP Lenovo netbook strategy TD-SCDMA Tsinghua Tongfang wireless 3G computer Founder Technology Group notebook rankings