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Sony has announced the PEG-SJ33 in Japan. This marks the first time Sony has introduced a model with an integrated MP3 player and a mid-range price.

Though the SJ33 is an updated version of the SJ30, it has been redesigned both externally and internally.

On the inside, the SJ33 has more in common with the T665C than the SJ30. It runs Palm OS 4.1 on a 66 MHz Dragonball processor and, as mentioned earlier, has a built-in audio player capable of playing both MP3s and ATRAC3s. It has 16M RAM.

It has a 320 by 320 pixel, TFT screen that is 3 inches when measured diagonally. It does not use virtual Graffiti.

Its casing has been redesigned. It is now 4.2 by 2.9 by .9 inches including the integrated flip cover. It will come in three colors: Azure Blue, Lucent Black, and Flame Orange. It weighs 6.1 ounces, not the 7.8 ounces previously reported.

According to Sony, it has significantly improved the battery on this model. It says this model will last 17 days with 30 minutes of use a day. The T665C

It comes with CLIE Memo and CLIE Mail, two applications that debuted with the NX series. Initially, it was reported that the SJ33 had an enhanced infrared port and universal remote software; this isn't the case.

Of course, this model has a Memory Stick slot. However, it is not able to use the just-announced Memory Stick PRO format.

The version with the black casing will be available in Japan on February 8 and the other two on February 22. Each of these will cost 29,800 Yen, or about $250.

Though no official announcement has been made, according to rumor, this model will debut in the U.S. next month for $300.

SJ22

There was no word from Japan about the rumored SJ22, which is supposed to replace the SJ20. According to a source at a major electronics retailer, the SJ22 will have a color screen and cost $200 when it is available April 22.

It is not known if Sony's low-end model, the SL10, will get updated.

NZ90

Sony also announced the NZ90 in Japan today. This model debuted at the Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas earlier this month.

The major difference between the U.S. and Japanese versions is the Japanese one has an IC reader built-in, allowing the user to check the balance or transactions for an IC card. Currently, it supports Sony's Edy card, which is a prepaid card that is accepted at some shops. It also supports the prepaid Japan Rail pass.

Thanks to Eugene for the tip.

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