The iPod touch-compatible ZTE Peel made its official début on Sprint this weekend. The 3G sleeve fits the second and third generation iPod touch and provides internet connectivity via Sprint’s 3G network. The sleeve functions as a WiFi hotspot that supports two simultaneous connections so you can share your mobile broadband with a friend, family member, or co-worker.
The ZTE sleeve is available contract-free from Sprint for $79.99. Sprint is selling the device with a data plan that provides 1GB of data for $29.99 monthly. Overages on the plan will cost 5¢ per megabyte. While the data plan is a bit pricey it does compare favorably to Sprint’s other mobile hotspot offering, the Overdrive 3G/4G Mobile Hotspot by Sierra Wireless. The Overdrive is available for $49.99 with a two-year contract and monthly plan of $60/5GB.
Though the concept is interesting, the Peel is limited as it does not fit the latest generation iPod touch. The 4th generation iPod touch includes both a camera and an external microphone that could potentially be used for VoIP and video calling via the mobile broadband accessory. Unfortunately, the 2nd and 3rd generation devices lack a camera and require a special headset with a built-in microphone to have voice capability.
To even attempt a VoIP call with the current ZTE Peel, you would need to lug around the iPod touch, the sleeve, and a headset. This requirement to carry not one, but three pieces of hardware limits the usability of the device as an iPhone replacement. Though it may not be a solution for those looking to use the iPod touch as an iPhone, the ZTE Peel would be an excellent solution for someone who has an older iTouch and is looking to use it on-the-go.
[Via Sprint]