Have recently noticed that a lot of the newer laptop and netbook units coming out this year have skipped the once obligatory analog phone modem. About a decade ago, that RJ11 port is one of the most important ports you need when connecting to the internet as dial-up modems were the norm. There are still a number of ISPs today that cater to the dial-up market (ISP Bonanza comes to mind) and for others who are already on DSL, they might still use the port to directly hook up to the phone lines. The analog modem might still have its place in desktop computers but in laptops and netbooks, skipping the port could be deemed a space-saver. IMO, the analog modem has that same awkward position as the Bluetooth, only much more evident. Personally, I can't remember ever using the analog modem for a long time now. After over two weeks of using the iPhone 3G, I can fairly say I have become familiar with this mobile device to share some insights on how it fares as a primary mobile phone. First let me say that Apple has revolutionized the way we use our mobile phones. Read more in our articles including "Is the analog phone modem on its way out?" and "iPhone 3G: The Good, the Bad and the Ugly".
Have recently noticed that a lot of the newer laptop and netbook units coming out this year have skipped the once obligatory analog phone modem. About a decade ago, that RJ11 port is one of the most important ports you need when connecting to the internet as dial-up modems were the norm.
There are still a number of ISPs today that cater to the dial-up market (ISP Bonanza comes to mind) and for others who are already on DSL, they might still use the port to directly hook up to the phone lines. The analog modem might still have its place in desktop computers but in laptops and netbooks, skipping the port could be deemed a space-saver. IMO, the analog modem has that same awkward position as the Bluetooth, only much more evident.
Our coverage of phone modem includes: "Is the analog phone modem on its way out?"; "iPhone 3G: The Good, the Bad and the Ugly"; "Globe drops iPhone 3G Prices and more!". Each article provides unique insights and information.