iStation bids to eliminate the need of a computer

HYDERABAD: iNablers Technologies has unveiled a device, iStation that allows

one to send and receive text-based e-mails anywhere, anytime by mere touch of a

button. The Bangalore based company has launched its product in Hyderabad and is

planning to launch it in other parts of the state by the end of September.

Christened as- iStation, the product plugs into a standard telephone jack and

comes with 256 KB memory. It has an embedded modem and backlight LCD for

nighttime viewing and the device also comes with a 9V UM9 backup battery.

The product is currently available in 2 models — Premier at Rs 8000 and

Classic at Rs 6000. The premier version comes with enhanced features like

printer and PC ports. "We are targeting the premier model for those who

would like to take print-outs of their mails or would like to unlink to the PC,

while the classic model is aimed at those who require the basic emailing

facility without these additional features. Basically we are aiming at

eliminating the need of a computer as far as e mails are concerned,"

explained, John Aravamuthan, CEO of the company.

The marketing strategy of the company is aimed at both individuals as well as

businesses. An integral part of the strategy is creating a wide dealer network,

installing Public Email Offices (PEO) and expanding its services to other parts

of the country. "We are going to convert already available PCOs into PEOs

wherein our users can come and check their mails. We are hopeful of having our

own presence throughout India by the end of December," he added.

In its bid to cater to a much larger user segment, the company has chalked

out plans to have more then 65 server all across the sub continent. With each

server costing around Rs 7 lakh, the company is all set to invest a huge amount

to see itself firmly entrenched in the Indian space. As of now the company has

got funding of $1 million each from Infinity Ventures and ICICI ventures.