Carry-On Base Station Cuts Roaming for Travelers

The Attocell was designed with the iPhone in mind, now has as well been tested with BlackBerry, Android and Nokia devices. Ubiquisys doesn't but have distribution plans in the U.S., yet the company said talks are underway with a number of carriers.

"We are constantly developing new ways to harness intelligent cell research," said Chris Gilbert, chief executive of Ubiquisys. "The Attocell research is a direct response to meet a specific requirement from mobile operators."

Attocell addresses the difficulties that travelers face when attempting to use mobile devices abroad. They often complain about the high cost of mobile calls overseas, leading many to buy SIM cards in foreign countries. Skype and other VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) systems are as well popular with travelers; now those services require a Wi-Fi connection.

Wireless carriers that often say their hands are tied by international roaming charges may see the Attocell as a way to keep business travelers loyal.