HP Pre-announces New Cellular-Wireless iPAQ

HP has announced plans to release later this year a cellular-wireless handheld called the iPAQ Mobile Messenger.

Details at this point are sketchy. HP has only said this device will offer both voice and data. It will run on GSM/GPRS wireless networks, and support EDGE, a wireless networking standard that can provide average speeds of 100 kbps to 130 kbps.

Unlike HP's current cellular-wireless models, the iPAQ h6300 series, it will have an integrated keyboard. Reportedly, the lack of a built-in keyboard is one of potential buyers' most frequent complaints about the h6300 series.

In another change from the h6300 series, the iPAQ Mobile Messenger will include a GPS receiver.

It will include Good Technology's GoodLink software, which will keep the device wirelessly connected with Microsoft Outlook and Exchange, as well as other critical enterprise information.

No other details on this upcoming device are available at this time. However, HP says it will demonstrate a prototype of the iPAQ Mobile Messenger at the 3GSM World Congress, going on February 14 - 17 in Cannes, France.

The First of Many

HP says the iPAQ Mobile Messenger will be just the first of many wireless handhelds it will roll out this year.

It gave no specifics about these models, aside from saying, "The new devices will incorporate several different types of wireless technologies and be offered in a variety of designs and sizes."

Thanks to PocketPCTools.com for the tip.

Related Links

• HP Redesigning Some Recent iPAQs
• iPAQ h6300 Series May Be Coming to New Carriers