Sony Ericsson 3G modems add microSD, GPS

As part of its campaign today, Sony Ericsson has unveiled two new USB modems for frequent travelers. The MD400 and its GPS-capable equivalent MD400g each support 3G cellular data up to 7.2Mbps over virtually any HSDPA-based network, including those in North America. Unique to these adapters, however, is a hybrid Memory Stick Micro and microSD slot that accepts cards from either format to either use as impromptu storage or to transfer media to and from cellphones.

Both devices work with Mac OS X and modern Windows PCs, and on at least some platforms will auto-install and auto-configure themselves to use the appropriate network without requiring a separate install CD. A GPS utility comes with the MD400g that hooks into Google Maps for live positioning.

Both devices will ship in black and white colors and should be available worldwide in the fall; Sony Ericsson hasn't named carriers or prices but should make the modems available in the US.