Dell Inc. is now offering a USB stick-sized thin client device that delivers desktop virtualization and personal cloud services without requiring mobile workers to lug around a laptop.
The Dell Wyse Cloud Connect device, which sells for $129, is an Android-based dongle that can provide mobile workers a seamless connection with Dell’s PocketCloud application and files remote access service, as well as virtualization services from Citrix, VMware and Microsoft.
The device was developed from technology from Wyse Technology, which was acquired by Dell in 2012.
Wyse Cloud Connect users don’t need to carry around a laptop when they’re travelling since that device can be connected to any display with an HDMI or MHL port. A keyboard and mouse may still be needed though.
Cloud Connect has a micro SD card slot that supports up to 75GB of storage, 8GB of onboard storage and 1GB of RAM. It can connect to peripheral devices via Bluetooth and it has 802.11a/b/g/n Wi-Fi.
Other benefits include:
- Easy remote connection with Microsoft Windows OS or Apple Mac OS for access to data, content and applications
- Quick and secure access for mobile workers to virtual desktops and cloud assets
- Plug-and-play interactive capability for running full-HD presentations
- A pocket-sized, battery-free alternative when the user’s primary device is lost or stolen
- Cloud access to online entertainment
- Could be used for digital signage applications
In an opinion piece for Computerworld U.S., industry analyst Rob Enderle said Cloud Connect “is almost the perfect thin client, but it’s hampered by the fact that there aren’t a ton of HDMI monitors out there, and monitors and TVs with MHL HDMI ports are even rarer. In addition, the Android interface is optimized for touch and feels a bit unnatural with a mouse. Don’t get me wrong, it does work – and once Citrix is up and you’re using Office, it works fine – but if you want to use the Android features, touch improves the experience greatly.”