With device manufacturers
recently slashing prices and launching free promotions to clear
excess inventory, it is not surprising that Palm and Handspring have
just received FCC approval for new products, which could be lining
store shelves just in time for the Christmas season.
Palm
According to documents published by the FCC, Palm is preparing
to release a successor to the Palm VIIx, with wireless capabilities.
The Palm i705 will embrace the company’s commitment to the
Universal Connector for syncing and SC card slot, which was featured
on the high-end Palm m500 and m505 handhelds.
Features
- ‘Always on’ e-mail connection, enabling users instant
access to e-mail messages
- Desktop e-mail forwarding client
- Web clipping applications
- Four buttons to link to the address book, date book, MyPalm
portal, and MultiMail Deluxe e-mail program
- A blinking red/green light indicator to alert users of new
e-mail messages
It is rumored that Palm is developing a handheld with GPRS
capabilities for the international market. It is expected that these
devices will be released initially in North America by the end of
the year.
Handspring
Handspring received approval for two new devices, referred to by
their codenames Shea and Manhattan.
The Manhattan features a built-in keyboard and will be known as
the Treo K180, while the Shea uses Graffiti input and will be
marketed under the name of Treo G180. Similar to the VisorPhone,
both devices will feature GSM voice and data capabilities. However,
they will be the first devices not to have a Springboard slot. The
Blazer web browsing software will be included with both products.
The company has not given any indication of possible release
dates.
For more information:
