AT&T have announced a new USB cellular modem, the USBConnect Mercury.  The smallest modem to date in the company’s HSPA range, AT&T are claiming the Mercury can achieve download speeds of up to 1.7Mbps and upload speeds of up to 1.2Mbps on their network.

Installation is straightforward, with the USBConnect Mercury having both the AT&T Communication Manager (for PCs) and Sierra’s Watcher app (for Macs) preloaded.  It also has an integrated microSD slot, meaning the modem can double as a portable hard-drive and memory card reader.

A data package with two-year service agreement is needed, unsurprisingly, and the USBConnect Mercury can be had free – after rebate – if a plan over $60 a month is selected.  Otherwise it has a 2yr contract price of $100 (retail price $249.99).