Upcoming Handheld Offers Just Web Access

While many handheld computers allow you to access the Web, an upcoming device called the PocketSurfer Web Viewer does nothing but.

When it's available, the PocketSurfer will use a Bluetooth-enabled mobile phone to connect to the Internet. It will show Web pages on a screen that is 640 pixels wide, larger than is available on most handhelds. It will also have a keyboard.

Single Purpose vs. Multi-Purpose

Though the idea of such a single-purpose device may seem pointless to many long-time PDA users, several single-purpose devices can often do a better job than a multi-purpose one can, according to a Jupiter Research study released in December. "When manufacturers converge products, the end result is usually increased capabilities in the areas where the devices overlap, but decreased suitability for the primary functions of each device. The sum is often less than the individual parts."

The study also showed that showed that 53% of Americans are willing to carry more than one device, like a cell phone and a handheld.

Nothin' But Net

The PocketSurfer's browser will support rich HTML, XML, graphics, Java applets, and pop-up windows. However, this device doesn't offer sound.

A proxy server at Datawind will reduce the size of the files sent to the device, increasing the speed at which pages load. The developer says this means most pages load in 5 to 7 seconds. This service costs an additional $10 to $15 per month, on top of the user's regular mobile phone fee.

It will have a 640-by-240 pixel, transflective, color screen. It will also have a built-in keyboard on one side of its clamshell shape. The PocketSurfer will include a touch screen plus a mouse pointer controlled by a D-pad next to the keyboard.

The entire device will be 5.5 inches wide, 2.75 inches high, and 0.37 inches thick. It will weigh 3.4 ounces.

The PocketSurfer will be available to retailers the third quarter of this year. It is being distributed in the U.S. by CellStar. Pricing is expected to begin at $199.

Related Links

• Study: Only 7% of U.S. Population Will Own Handhelds