Other features in common include a 400 MHz Intel PXA processor, 64 MB of SDRAM, and 32 MB of flash ROM (2.8 MB of which is available to the end user as an iPAQ File Store). Both devices have a single SDIO-compatible card slot, a built-in microphone and speaker, and a standard 3.5 mm stereo headphone jack. Both have a 3.5" diagonal, TFT touch screen that displays images with up to 64K colors.
The HP iPAQ h4150 Pocket PC is similar in looks and size to the h1900 series iPAQs, but is a fraction of an ounce heavier. Its dimensions are 4.47 x 2.78 x 0.5 in. and it weighs 4.67 oz. In addition, the navigation pad and application launch keys at the bottom of the device have been redesigned slightly. The device has a 1000 mAh removable/ rechargeable battery, with a high-capacity 1800 mAh battery available as an option.
The HP iPAQ h4150 Pocket PC (above)
The HP iPAQ h4350 incorporates some of the design elements of the h4150, including the screen size and the slightly rounded top. However, the most noticeable difference is the integrated keyboard immediately below the slightly altered navigation pad and application launch buttons. The backlit keys are arranged in the standard QWERTY layout.
The HP iPAQ h4350 Pocket PC (above)
The h4350 is a fraction of an inch wider and thicker than the h4150, but a full inch longer to accommodate the built-in keyboard. It weighs over an ounce more. The h4350 comes with a 1560 mAh removable/ rechargeable battery standard, and has a 3600 mAh battery available as an option.
Windows Mobile Smartphones in the U.S.—Finally!
Motorola and Samsung partner with Microsoft to introduce clamshell Smartphones based on the Windows Mobile OS and software suite, for AT&T and Verizon Wireless networks.
by Rich Hall
Travel back in time to the September 2002 issue of Pocket PC magazine. In that issue we looked at the future of Windows Mobile and discussed a new device called the "Windows Powered Smartphone 2002." These devices have been available in Europe for about a year, but conspicuously absent in Microsoft's home country. Well, the future will finally catch up with those of us in the U.S. In 2003 AT&T Wireless and Verizon Wireless will introduce Smartphones based on Microsoft's mobile operating system and applications.
MPx200 Available from AT&T Wireless
On September 14, Microsoft and Motorola formally announced that they would cooperate in the development of Smartphones and wireless Pocket PCs. At the same time, Motorola introduced the new MPx200, the first Motorola device to be based on Microsoft's Smartphone operating system and application set.
Their stated goal is to design handheld devices that "...create a virtual 'remote control' for the Web-centric, work-centric, always-on-the-go mobile professional..." In other words, they want you to be able to access all the information and business tools you need to get the job done, from a device the size of a large cell phone. That's a big goal, and if Microsoft and Motorola keep their eyes on it, it will drive development of handheld and wireless technology for years to come.
A Windows Mobile Smartphone
The MPx200 is based on Microsoft's Smartphone 2002 software, which Microsoft is now referring to as "Windows Mobile software for Smartphone." This software gives Smartphones a set of applications with most of the functionality that's found on Pocket PCs. However, these applications have been optimized for the smaller screen and different input method (numeric keypad, no touchscreen) of the Smartphone.
You'll find the following Microsoft software features on the Motorola MPx200:
A Today screen, which lists upcoming appointments, unread e-mail and SMS messages, and other information. As with a Pocket PC, you can customize this screen.
Pocket Outlook, which lets you list and organize your Tasks, keep track of the addresses and phone numbers of your Contacts, be reminded of Calendar appointments, and read and respond to e-mail in your Inbox.
Smartdial feature, which makes it easy to find and dial a phone number.
MSN Messenger, which lets you create, send, receive, and read instant messages.
Pocket Internet Explorer, which allows you to browse HTML and WAP Web sites.
Windows Media Player, for playing and streaming audio and video.
ActiveSync, which lets you synchronize e-mail, calendar, and contacts with your desktop PC or corporate network via a USB, infrared, or GPRS wireless connection.
A variety of setup and configuration utilities.
A file manager, a task manager, a space maker, and a system information utility.
Finally, you can download a variety of applications, games, videos, and music directly to your Smartphone.
Sleek clamshell design
The Motorola MPx200 is designed to work with AT&T Wireless and other GSM/GPRS wireless networks. The device has a 176 x 220-pixel color display. This is NOT a touchscreen like the Pocket PC's—all navigation and input on the Smartphone is accomplished via the numeric keypad, the central navigation pad, and the various buttons.
The MPx200 is powered by a 132 MHz Texas Instruments OMAP 710 processor and comes with 32 MB of RAM for program operation and data storage and 32 MB of flash ROM for the built-in Smartphone software. It has a single SD card slot on the lower right edge (see image). This expansion slot can accept optional SD and MMC file storage cards with capacities of up to 1 gigabyte, but is not SDIO-compatible, which means you can't use Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, or other SDIO cards. Also located on the right edge of the Smartphone, above the SD slot, is a stereo headphone jack. Motorola is also promoting the quality of the MPx200's "rich polyphonic speaker."
There is an IrDA port on the lower left edge of the device, which enables the MPx200 to exchange files and contact information with other infrared-equipped handheld devices. The left edge also has an on/off button and a scroll dial for navigation.
The MPx200 folds up into a small, well-protected clamshell case. It ships with a USB connectivity cable that allows you to connect it to a desktop PC for data synchronization and battery charging. Also included is a quick-start guide, and a companion CD with ActiveSync and other software. Details about the contents of the CD were unavailable in late September. We expect Motorola to offer an optional digital camera attachment.
Available in the U.S. through AT&T Wireless
The MPx200 will be offered by a number of different mobile service providers.
No pricing information was available as we went to press in late September 2003, but AT&T has indicated that the MPx200 will be available in the November-December 2003 time frame. In addition to basic service, they will offer the AT&T mMode service, which allows you to receive the latest news, weather, sports, messaging services, driving directions, and more. For the latest information visit the AT&T Wireless Web site (www.attwireless.com/mpx200).
Orange is scheduled to offer the MPx200 in the U.K in October 2003. They will classify it as an "Orange Signature handset" which allows the user to access Orange Backup services to store Contacts and Calendar info on the Orange network and then restore it to the MPx200 if needed. They will also provide update services, allowing their MPx200 users to update their devices with newer versions of the Smartphone software when it becomes available. These services will also include the downloading of games and applications to the device.
Motorola plans to introduce the MPx200 in Hong Kong mid-October, and in Europe in late 2003, but has not yet announced the distribution channels.
Motorola alliance good for the Windows Mobile Smartphone
The advantages of an alliance with a major mobile phone manufacturer like Motorola are many. It further legitimizes Microsoft's Windows-based approach to this device category. This in turn drives the adoption of Windows Mobile-based Smartphones by consumers and enterprise users—especially in the U.S. where there's not as much competition from smartphones based on the Symbian operating system. In addition, wireless service providers will feel more comfortable supporting these devices. Finally, as the use of Windows Mobile-based Smartphones continues to grow, so will the number of third-party developers supporting t
he device. We'll see more games, applications, accessories, and services becoming available to users of the Smartphone.
Microsoft is working on a newer version of their Smartphone software, based on Windows Mobile 2003. No word yet on when that will be released or if it will be made available to MPx200 users. The problem is that cell phone developers and service providers like to thoroughly test devices to insure compatibility, and that can take a while. The MPx200 has been in the testing phase for a long time. It's unlikely that Motorola will want to wait another year while they test a Windows Mobile 2003 version.
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My First Experience with the Motorola MPx200
by Dale Coffing
www.pocketpcpassion.com
I was excited as I opened the box of the Motorola MPx200 and viewed this amazingly small and compact Windows Mobile Smartphone for the first time. It's a beautiful device. I love the clean lines and the solid feel. The Motorola tradition of quality-built products is evident.
The MPx200 folds up into a small, well-protected clamshell case that fits easily in your hand (see image). I like the large LCD screen on the outside of the case. It displays important data, such as signal strength, battery condition, incoming calls, and more, but lets you keep the MPx200 closed, protecting the color screen and preventing accidental button presses. You can even customize the LCD view via the Phone Settings menu. My favorite view was "Style 1," which displays the current time and date using an analog clock, along with a calendar. 009;
The built-in speaker is one of the best I have heard. It is much louder and sounds a lot better than the speaker on my HP iPAQ h5555. In fact, it's good enough to play MP3s via Media Player without using earphones! However, I did use earphones with the MPx200 when I was traveling by air. I was sitting near a gentleman who had pulled out his 8-pound laptop and was using its desktop PC version of Media Player to listen to music. I pulled out the MPx200, slipped a 256 MB SD Card loaded with my favorite music and videos into the Smartphone, put the headphones on and sat back. Later on, I turned some heads playing a video on the MPx200 using the built-in speaker for sound. Adjusting the volume for headphones and speaker is easy using the jog switch on the side of the phone.
Since I was traveling by air, I had to deal with the "please turn off your cell phones during the entire flight" announcement. It was a little difficult to convince the flight attendants that, in spite of a screen that was obviously on, I did indeed have the phone switched off. Fortunately, the MPx200 displays a special "Airplane Mode" indicator when the phone portion of the device is turned off. This put the flight attendants at ease.
Excellent suite of add-on software
In addition to the standard Microsoft Smartphone software, Motorola includes a Utility Pack suite with the following utilities:
File Managergreatly improves the ease and power of browsing and working with files on the MPx200.
Task Manager improves task switching and task closing, and displays the amount of free memory.
Space Maker finds unnecessary files and lets you delete them to free up data storage space.
System Info displays information about the system, including the available RAM, flash storage, and power (main and backup batteries), as well as additional device information.
The System Info utility displays MPx200 power and memory information.
These four utilities greatly enhance the functionality of the MPx200 and make it a much better product.
One satisfied customer
Going with an attractive and protective clamshell design, as opposed to the always-open design of the Orange SPV devices, was a smart decision by Motorola. I think they should consider integrating Bluetooth capability and a digital camera into a future version of the MPx200. But as is, this stylish and compact device will be a hit with consumers, especially if Motorola keeps the price competitive.
I am testing a pre-production version of the MPx200 that has a few minor bugs. But I'm very impressed with the operation of the phone. Based on my experience so far, you can bet I will use this one regularly and continue to be a satisfied AT&T customer.
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Samsung SCH-i600 Available from Verizon Wireless
Microsoft worked with Samsung on the development of the SCH-i600, another Windows Mobile-based Smartphone with a clamshell design. Interestingly, we started seeing pictures and descriptions of this device well over a year ago. This underscores the fact that Smartphone developers and service providers take a long time testing these products to insure compatibility with the networks they will be used with.
The i600 will include the same basic Microsoft Smartphone software described above, and like the Motorola device, the software is based on the original Smartphone 2002 operating system and applications. The device will also include Voice Signal technology, which will let you use voice commands to move through menu options and to look up and dial phone numbers.
The i600 is designed to work with CDMA networks like the one operated in the U.S. by Verizon Wireless. The device is powered by a 200 MHz Intel PXA250 processor and comes with 32 MB of RAM and 32 MB of flash ROM. It has a 176x200 pixel display (standard on all Windows Mobile Smartphones) that displays 65K colors, for a rich visual experience. On the outside of the i600's case is an LED display that lets you check caller ID information without opening the phone. The i600 has an SDIO card slot, which means that you can add SD or MMC storage memory as well as Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and similar functions. It also has an IrDA port, an earphone jack, and a built-in speakerphone.
A variety of accessories will be available for the i600, but it's unclear at this time which ones will come with the standard package. At the least, the i600 will ship with a sync cable, a charger, a quick start guide, and a companion CD. Other possibilities for standard or optional accessories will be a 900 mAh and a 1700 mAh user-replaceable battery, a travel charger kit, a car power adapter, a leather case, a portable keyboard, a USB sync cable, a sync/charger cradle, a hands-free stereo headset, and a hands-free car kit.
Available through Verizon
Verizon Wireless will introduce the i600 in the U.S. sometime this year, to work with its 1xRTT CDMA network. However, as of late September, specifics about the price and launch date were unavailable. Samsung's current plans do not include introducing this device in Europe, where GSM networks are nearly universal.
Pick the Wireless Service You Like Best
This is a pre-release report on these devices. CDMA coverage (Verizon) is probably a little better than GSM (AT&T) in the U.S. However, you should pick the wireless network and Smartphone that suits you best.
A few days before we went to press, Dale Coffing of PocketPCPassion.com had a chance to test a Motorola MPx200. His first impressions of the device are found in the Motorola MPx200 sidebar. As you can see, he was very satisfied with the MPx200.
It's interesting to note that Microsoft's site has announced an alliance with Motorola "...to build and deliver a series of Microsoft Windows Mobile-based Smartphones and Pocket PCs..." Evidentially, we'll be announcing and reviewing more Smartphones and wireless Pocket PCs from Motorola. In fact, the future of Windows Mobile handhelds is wireless.
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Impressions of the Samsung i600 Smartphone
by David Shier
Wireless Technology Editor
Microsoft Mobile Devices MVP
I had the opportunity to spend a little time with the new Samsung i600 Windows Mobile Smartphone recently. The i600 is being offered by Verizon Wireless and will work with their CDMA network in the US. I greatly prefer its folding clamshell design to the one piece so called "candy bar" layout of some devices. The clamshell eliminates the need to lock the keyboard when placing the phone in your pocket. I was very impressed with the bright color screen on the i600. In addition, the keys were better than those found on most mobile phones. The device generates a key-click sound that is a bit too loud. This can be turned off, but I'm not sure if it can be turned down.
Sin
ce the Verizon network supports 1xRTT technology, data connections on the i600 are quite fast. Unfortunately, like all other CDMA phones currently on the market, the i600 lacks Bluetooth connectivity. This means that if you want to use a headset with the phone (as is being required while driving in many states) you will need to connect it to the i600 via cable.
Verizon tends to be conservative when it comes to product releases—focusing more on product reliability. Based on Verizon's lengthy testing process, I expect the i600 to be one of the more dependable Smartphones on the market.
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Rich Hall has written extensively about mobile computing for the last 15 years. He is the Editor of Pocket PC magazine and former editor of the HP Palmtop Paper, the NEC Ultralite Connection and the HP Portable Paper. He began his career as a high school math and English teacher. Rich lives in Fairfield, Iowa, with his wife Lucinda, and their children Robert and Ella. You can contact him at [email protected].
Bargain Pocket PCs with Plenty of Features
Dell's Axim X3 and HP's iPAQ h1935 are small, lightweight Pocket PCs with plenty of power and priced to sell!
Pocket PC magazine, January 2004 Page 2
