Microsoft Corp. released its Pocket PC platform for handheld personal computers powered by its Windows CE operating system.
Microsoft hardware partners Casio Computer Co. Ltd., Compaq Computer Corp., Hewlett-Packard Co. and Symbol Technologies Inc. each introduced devices using the platform. Prices for the new devices range from $300 to $600.
“Pocket” versions of such Microsoft software applications as Outlook 2000 personal information manager, Internet Explorer browser, Word, Excel and Windows Media Player were included in the platform.
None of the devices feature embedded wireless connectivity, but each manufacturer offered wireless-related accessories from third-party providers. Socket Communications Inc. introduced a family of CompactFlash and Digital Phone Card plug-in cards for HP’s Jornada 540 series Pocket PC devices, enabling them to connect to wireless phones for Internet access, while Novatel Wireless Inc. unveiled a wireless Cellular Digital Packet Data modem for the Jornada 540.
Nextcell Inc. offered its Pocket Spider CDPD modem with global positioning system capabilities designed for most serial ports, as well as Compaq Flash.
AvantGo Inc.’s mobile Internet service client software has been integrated with the Pocket Internet Explorer browser so all Pocket PC-powered devices will have access to the free AvantGo service out-of-the-box.
The first generation of Windows CE-powered handheld PCs proved unpopular in the marketplace, giving Microsoft competitor Palm Computing and Palm’s parent company, 3Com Corp., a chance to gain a substantial lead in the mobile PC space.
While Palm has introduced embedded wireless handheld devices, like the Palm VII, the companies building Pocket PC-based devices do not have core competencies in wireless transmission. Analysts feel they must first prove their ability to create a functional nonwireless device before offering embedded wireless capabilities.
