Audiovox Communications
Audiovox Communications introduced the Maestro, a Pocket PC that uses Microsoft Windows Powered Pocket PC 2002 software. The product features 32 MB of SDRAM and 32 MB of Flash Rom and an Intel Strong ARM 206 MHz processor. It also includes built-in CFR card and SD card slots. The Maestro can be connected to an Audiovox CDM-9100 phone to provide Internet access without an additional modem or wireless Internet service provider (ISP). The device will be sold through wireless carriers and will be bundled with the CDEM-9100 phone. www.audiovox.com.
Ericsson
Ericsson released a new General Packet Radio Service (GPRS) phone, the R600, which is available in the fourth quarter. The phone offers enhanced messaging, mobile Internet access and personalized options. The handset has a built-in antenna and five-row gray-scale display and comes in the colors of luminous champagne and ice blue. The large display is suited for enhanced messaging service, allowing users to send and receive pictures, animations, sound effects and ring signals, many of which are built into the phone, in messages. The R600 also has mobile chat, which allows users to have chat sessions similar to chats on the Internet. It supports speeds up to 43.2 kilobits per second (kbps). The display color can be set to green, red or orange, and colors can be linked to contacts in the phone book. It also has a basic calendar and 200-contact storage. www.ericsson.com
NEC
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NEC has launched PocketGear, a personal digital assistant (PDA) powered by Microsoft’s Pocket PC 2002 software, which it plans to market to corporate mobile businesses in Japan. PocketGear offers two built-in card slots and an optional adapter for a PC card, allowing three different functions to be used simultaneously. www.nec.com.
Sony Ericsson
Sony Ericsson launched the Ericsson Bluetooth Handsfree HBH-20, a hands-free device that clips onto clothing. The device, half the size of a credit card, is designed to be worn all day. It consists of a small Bluetooth unit, which can be clipped to clothes, and a separate ear piece, which also contains a microphone. The two parts are connected by a short wire. In addition, voice technology allows users to make and receive phone calls. www.SonyEricssonMobile.com.
Agere Systems
A platform that reportedly nearly quadruples Internet data rates for handset users was announced by Agere Systems. The SVL12 platform is a Class 12 General Packet Radio Service (GPRS) hardware and software system. The technology can enable a user to download data at up to 50 kilobits per second (kbps) and send the data to a wireless network at up to the same speed. The system reduces the number of components to about 150 from 300 on previous-generation technology, the company said. www.agere.com