I like the little Archos 605 Wifi but not because its a portable device with a browser. Mine is serving time under my TV as an Internet TV and PVR unit with the docking station and remote control.

The reason I don’t use it as a mobile Internet device is 1) Because it’s WiFi only. 3G is easier and cheaper for me than Wifi when I’m on the go. 2) The processing power and browser software just aren’t up to scratch.

It looks like problem number 1 will be solved with the next-gen Archos devices because Archos have signed an HSDPA deal with SFR. I’m not sure why they need to sign a deal. Maybe SFR will offer it discounted with their own content portal. As it’[s being sold in France it can’t be locked to a provider either so it’s bound to appear in other countries in Europe.

Let hope they get problem number 2 sorted out with an upgrade to Opera 9.5 and a faster CPU. If they do that, it will be a much more flexible solution than the 605 and a serious competitor to the iPod Touch.

Via GottaBeMobile

Source: Electronista and ArchosFans