Jumpsurf Provides You With Cross-Border Mobile Wifi

For frequent travelers, getting internet access can be a pain in the arse. It just takes way too much time and effort. Some hotels charge ridiculous sums for internet access and the process of getting a local unlimited 3G SIM card can be pretty daunting (Yes, even in Singapore!).

Siva Sai, founder of Jumpsurf has a possible solution for the problem. If you have US$148 to spare, you can grab a Jumpsurf mobile modem, which contains a SIM card that automatically detects user’s location and provides them with the relevant Internet Service Provider (ISP) — for example, SingTel in Singapore or 3 in Jakarta. The gadget weighs 180g and can last up to 7 hours on WiFi. Right now, coverage is still pretty limited but Siva says that they are actively getting more carriers on board.

The Jumpsurf mobile modem is only a one time payment which also comes with $18 worth of credit. Users pay for the amount of 3G data they use at a $0.20/MB rate. That’s not too cheap. I argued with Siva that getting a local 3G card is way more cost effective. Personally, I have local SIM cards for China, Indonesia, and Taiwan. I would subscribe to an unlimited 3G data plan during my stay, then I can freely tether to my other devices. The process is troublesome but worthwhile considering the money saved.

Siva agrees but also explains that Jumpsurf is targeted at folks who are less savvy about 3G matters. These are the people who would very much prefer a plug and play solution and don’t mind paying the premium for it (mainly corporate travelers).

Personally, I like the idea of having everything into one light device. Unfortunately, the 3G rates are beyond what my wallet can take. But that will hopefully change as more users get on board. Perhaps, Jumpsurf might even have an option for users to sign up for an unlimited plan so they can relax while using 3G, without the fear of breaking the bank while watching YouTube videos.

Siva from Jumpsurf holding his demo product.