Dell Says It’s Fixing Axim Problem

Dell has acknowledged that there is a problem with its handhelds running Windows Mobile 2003 for Pocket PCs and has stopped shipping them until it can develop a fix.

Last week, Axim X5 users in the Brighthand forums began reporting noticeable slowdowns with the new operating system when compared with Axims running Pocket PC 2002. The same issue is being discussed in forums on several other handheld-related sites.

Yesterday, a Dell spokesperson told News.com, "We are aware there is a performance issue with the Axim running Pocket PC 2003. We are working to implement a solution for our customers."

According to the Dell spokesperson, the problem is in the version of Windows Mobile 2003 it created for its handhelds, and therefore only affects the Axim X5.

The company doesn't know at this time when a fix will be available. This will most likely take the form of a ROM update that will be posted on the Dell web site.

It is continuing to take orders for new Axim X5s but won't fulfill them until it can ship units without this problem.

So far the only Axims available with Windows Mobile 2003 are ones that have been bought since the launch of the new operating system. The upgrades Dell is offering for the older Axims have yet to begin arriving.

Related Links

• Dell Users Claim New OS Slows Down Axim X5