Clearly, this is not the sentiment held by Palm, Inc. The market leader of handheld computers inked deals with two Bluetooth technology specialists, a sign that Palm is standing behind its commitment to the short-range technology.

Palm will work with Pico Communications of Cupertino, Calif., to support the latter’s PicoBlue Internet access point. PicoBlue enables Bluetooth-enabled devices such as Palm handhelds to access a high-speed Internet connection, making it ideal for mobile professionals needing to stay connected to their corporate LAN and the Internet.

PicoBlue is a complete Bluetooth access point with integrated servers and networking features required for IP Enterprise networking over Ethernet. It can manage seven simultaneous links, allowing seven users to share access to the Internet at any one time.

In a separate announcement, Palm said it would work with U.K. company Red-M to ensure seamless mobility between Palm handhelds computers and Red-M’s Bluetooth networking products. The two companies will work together through their respective partnership programs to ensure compatibility of Palm devices with Red-M ‘s access servers, access points, and Blade shed for the Palm Vx handheld. In addition, the companies will participate in joint marketing activities to further promote the adoption of Bluetooth to Palm handhelds users and Palm OS developers.

"Red-M considers handheld computers to be a critical application for Bluetooth," remarked Simon Gawne, vice president and co-founder of Red-M. "The partnership enables both companies to collectively expand the market for advanced Bluetooth-powered products."