BrightBytes™: Tungsten W, PlanMaker, and More

palmOne Releases Significant Update for Tungsten W

palmOne has released a software update for the Tungsten W that includes more than a dozen new features and improvements. With the Tungsten W Software Update 1.0, the operating system version jumps to Palm OS 4.1.2, the GSM/GPRS connection is retained even after turning off their device, there's a new version of the Web browser, users can lock their device keys with the keylock function, as well as additional access to commands from menus and buttons.

This update is free and is available on the palmOne support site. Is is being discussed in Brighthand's Tungsten W Forum.

SoftMaker Developing Spreadsheet Application for Pocket PC

SoftMaker, known for TextMaker, the gold-standard in Pocket PC word processors, is now working on a spreadsheet application. Details are still sketchy but PlanMaker 2003 will have a filter for many versions of Microsoft Excel, offer over 300 worksheet functions, have a charting tool and a spell-checker, and much more.

The company says a beta will be available soon. Additional details are available on the SoftMaker web site.

PocketMind Releases PocketMusic for Windows Powered Smartphones

PocketMusic is an alternative music player for Windows Powered Smartphones, allowing users to play MP3, and OGG Vorbis files. A playlist editor is also included, and it is possible to remap hardware keys to various playing functions. A 10-band equalizer with 18 different presets is also featured. Bookmarks allow the user to more easily listen to audiobooks, lectures, and radio programs. PocketMusic for Windows Powered Smartphone version 0.98 is available for free download at the developer's web site.