French tech sites are reporting that portable media player maker Archos is planning to introduce a new model in 2008 that will boast a 3G SIM card and related high-speed connectivity.

This wireless connectivity would build on Archos' strengths with Wi-Fi connectivity in its players and allow users to access media out and about, over mobile phone networks rather than just via WLAN set-ups.

The rumour is given an extra angle with the reports that the company will partner with an operator at launch, said to be Orange, the carrier that will offer Apple's iPhone in France, although SFR and Neuf-Cegetel are thought to have shown interest too.

>> Via - GMP3 (in French)