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Panasonic has joined Dell and Hewlett-Packard in supporting the Qualcomm Gobi chip for embedded laptop 3G. Panasonic will incorporate the software defined product in its Toughbook ruggedized line and its models, plus Gobi itself, have been certified for use on AT&T's network.

Gobi is the most advanced embedded wireless offering currently available, with its software defined capabilities that allow it to roam transparently across different networks (currently CDMA and HSPA, but with Wi-Fi, LTE, even WiMAX all feasible in future). Firmware is loaded dynamically from the notebook, allowing mobile workers to switch between networks while in the field or travelling both nationally and internationally. It also standardizes APIs, allowing developers to develop a wide variety of applications that sit above the card firmware, while providing no problem with certification.

Gobi is an important product for Qualcomm, representing an aggressive move into Intel's territory, and beyond the conventional handset into mobile internet devices in general.

Previously, Panasonic relied on single-air interface modules from vendors such as Sierra Wireless and Novatel - vendors that Qualcomm claims are not competitors, but could look to integrate Gobi into their single-card modules for after-market notebook sales. Panasonic is considering several ways to use the GPS services within Gobi " and not just in traditional location-based services, but in tracking lost or stolen laptops and in developing time-stamp functions".

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