Peek simple e-mail mobile devices, now even more affordable.

Back in October, we have posted an article about Peek, a new simple device that does one think and one thing only: send and receive e-mails without a long term contract; today, there is even better news to report. Due to the intense competition between smart phone manufacturers and wireless service providers, the prices of wireless devices are falling at breakneck speed and the Peek devices are not immune to that phenomenon despite their niche character.

Take for instance the Peek Classic which from $99.95 when it launched in September, now can be had for $19.95. Another Peek device, the Pronto, introduced in March and costing $79.95 back then, n0w sells for $59.95. Beside the prices, the two devices have some significant differences.

The Classic only does e-mails and it receives them five minutes after they are sent while the Pronto, like the name suggests, receives e-mails instantly and can send and receive text messages.

Despite these differences, both cost the same to use, $19.95 a month for unlimited e-mails and texts through T-Mobile network, thanks to the use of data compression technology.

Beside its own GetPeek.com site, the devices are sold at Amazon.com, at Target and now at RadioShack stores.

For more, see WSJ.com

Subsidized netbook with cell service offered by Verizon Wireless.

Starting this past Sunday, Verizon Wireless has begun offering a subsidized HP netbook for $200 after a $50 mail-in-rebate. Just like with its cellphones subsidies program, customers must sign a two years contract and agree to pay between $40 and $60 a month for data access.
The netbook model name H-P Mini 115NR, comes with a built-in cellular and WI-FI modems, a webcam, but lacks a DVD drive. The data level included in the plan is not unlimited and it will cost you extra if you exceed your limit; also, the service speed is slower than many WI-FI connections, minus the WI-FI access fees of course.
And for even less, you can go for a similar netbook made by Acer and available at RadioShack for $50, plus $36 activation fee, and a two years service contract at $60 a month with AT&T.

For more, see WSJ.com