The Upgrades Are Coming! The Upgrades Are Coming!

Since the first hints began to spread about the next version of Pocket PC, many have wondered if they would be able to upgrade their current model to the new operating system, or if they would have to buy a new handheld to enjoy the benefits of the new OS. Now that Microsoft has officially unveiled Windows Mobile 2003 for Pocket PC, some of the licensees are starting to announce their plans for upgrades.

For those who are new to this, releasing a new handheld OS doesn't work the same way as it does with desktops and laptops. The upgrade doesn't come straight from Microsoft. Instead, Microsoft gives the new operating system to its licensees who customize it for their individual models and release it.

Dell

Starting today, people who order either version of the Dell Axim X5 from the company's webstore will receive a unit running the new operating system. Existing Axim customers in North America and Europe can purchase a Windows Mobile 2003 upgrade with companion CD from Dell for $29.

Hewlett Packard

HP says it will offer upgrades for some of its iPAQ Models in the near future. Those who purchased an iPAQ h5450 or iPAQ h3900 series handheld between May 23, 2003 and September 23, 2003 will get a free upgrade. Those who purchased an iPAQ h5450 or iPAQ h3900 series model before May 23 will be able to buy one from HP for $29.95. More details will be available on HP's upgrade page.

There has been no word from the company on upgrades for the h1910 or earlier iPAQ or Jornada models.

Toshiba

Toshiba is offering an upgrade to the new operating system to owners of its e755.. People who purchased an e755 after May 23, 2003 and before September 23, 2003 are eligible to upgrade to Windows Mobile 2003 for $15.99 for shipping and handling.

Those who purchased a e755 with the Pocket PC 2002 operating system before May 23, 2003 will be able to upgrade to Windows Mobile 2003 for $50.00 (shipping and handling included).

Toshiba has announced no plans to offer an upgrade for the older e740 or e330.

ViewSonic

ViewSonic will offer a free upgrade to everyone who has purchased a V35 within the last 30 days or before 90 after the launch of Windows Mobile 2003 for Pocket PC, which occurred today, according to infoSync World. Those who bought a V35 more than 30 days ago will have to buy the upgrade, though ViewSonic has not yet decided what the cost for this will be.

The company expects to have this upgrade ready in the next two weeks.

Related Links

• Pocket PC 2003 Is Finally Here!