New packages from 3 will see the mobile broadband operator become the first in the UK to bundle laptops and dongles.

The move follows in the foot steps of the Carfone Warehouse and Phones 4u, who have launched similar offers.

It is thought that by distributing the free laptops, 3 is seeking to take advantage of the upcoming influx of new students followed by the Christmas boom, reports Mobile Today.

A number of 24-month deals are expected to be on offer by the end of August, with other major networks such as Orange and Vodafone tipped to enter the market before the end of the year.

Head of Data Select, George McPherson, commented: "There are propositions we are working through right now. This is flavour of the month. But we have to ensure it is not a cashback flavour of the month."

In conjunction with PC manufacturer Levono, Vodafone recently launched a range of laptops containing in-built 3G connectivity.