News
Issue #2002 - 32 (August 2002)
(Updated Aug. 21, 2002)

OPINION

In a review of the Pocket PC Phone Edition, the BlackBerry 5810 and the Handspring Treo, a BusinessWeek technology reviewer did not notice that the devices handled e-mail any faster when running on GPRS networks, saying that the connection seemed significantly slower than wired dial-up. Of the three devices, the Treo 270 was said to be the best integration of hand-held computing and cell phone functions, and was easiest to use. The drawback for the Pocket PC was its need to establish a network connection each time data was sent or received, a time consuming process. The BlackBerry's phone function met with disfavor, though it did a good job handling corporate e-mail. The reviewer estimates that in about six months, wireless e-mail will be ready for mainstream business.

MobileInfo Comments and Advisory: We should be realistic in expecting that it will take several years before a converged device that does a good job both as a PDA as well as a cellular phone will emerge. It takes at least three attempts at a product formulation to get it right. This is the first attempt.

Note: This news release may contain forward-looking statements. Readers should take appropriate caution in developing plans utilizing these products, services and technology architectures.  All trademarks used in this summary are the property of their respective owners.