INDIAINFOLINE.COM -- ASIATOTAL LAUNCHES FREE COMPUTER FOR LOW-INCOME PEOPLE

12 November, 2005
Author unknown

Hong Kong-based technology company Asiatotal.Net launched iT, the first free computer specifically designed to provide Internet access that empowers lower-income individuals and small businesses to enrich their lives, in India today.

Based on a self-financing business model, iT is an initiative designed to close the digital divide and bring benefits to both end users and corporate partners. Eligible individuals and small businesses will gain access to valuable information in areas such as education, medical, financial and entertainment while participating companies will benefit from a direct and profitable channel to maximize business opportunities in the world's fastest growing economies.

Judy S. Chen, President and CEO of Asiatotal.net, said that eligible individuals, groups and small businesses who until now have been unable to take advantage of the Internet, will have the potential to transform their quality of life with access to healthcare and social, educational and economic opportunities.

"It is estimated that only 10 percent of the world's population is connected to the Internet and 70% of the world's Internet users live in the 24 richest countries which only accounts for 16% of the world's population. iT has grown from the vision to close this great digital divide by providing the means for the less privileged to access the Internet," Chen said.

"The project has taken six years and a great deal of planning, design and the help of several key partners to come to fruition. It is based on a simple business model to supply cost competitive computers free of charge for universal Internet access by sharing profits with partner companies in designated markets."

The first 200,000 units are set to be dispatched to Brazil over the next few months. Subsequently iT will be distributed to other communities in Latin America, China, India, Russia, Continental and Eastern Europe, South Africa, Mexico, the Philippines and the Middle East.

"Asiatotal.net is targeting quality partners in the Consumer Business, Retail, Financial Services, Entertainment, Healthcare and the Technology, Media and Telecommunications sectors," Ms. Chen said. "The faster we are able to bring corporate partners onboard, the more computers we will be able to provide the millions of people in emerging markets who want to improve their lives and the lives of their children."

The iT package comprises a portable, language-adapted package, which includes keyboard, mouse, a 7-inch LCD monitor with speakers and all necessary accessories. Other user-friendly features of iT include a smart card reader for secure transactions, easy voice and text messaging via Windows Messenger, virus immunity and increased system stability from using the embedded Windows CE operating system (upgradeable to embedded Windows XP), and ready to connect to a wide range of USB peripherals including USB card reader to facilitate photographic image reproduction.

The hardware was designed, developed and technically managed by Taiwan-based technology leader Biostar, which also has the task of manufacturing the units. The units incorporate key components supplied by other Taiwanese partner companies including VIA and GBM.

"To provide, free of charge, the means for the less privileged to access the Internet. And, in doing so, to enhance and enrich their lives."