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You can read spec sheets all you want but there's nothing like getting your hands on a device to truly see what it's all about. That's what makes the trip across country to the CTIA Wireless conference in Las Vegas worthwhile. In just a couple of days you can feel and try out some of the latest devices on the market...and some not yet available.

bSquare's Power Handheld Reference Design

The Power Handheld Reference Design (click on images for larger pictures) from bSquare is billed as the "smallest handheld form factor with true web experience." That's supposedly means that you get a full VGA screen and a keyboard (a very slick retractable one), and everything runs just like it would on your desktop computer -- thanks to Windows CE .NET. It's powered by an Intel XScale PXA250 processor running at 400 megahertz and comes with integrated GSM/GPRS. Spec-wise, it seems to have everything you're looking for.

So what's it like hands-on? Well it's surprisingly comfortable and easy to use. The screen is bright, crisp and easy to read, which is where most small VGA displays fail. And the retractable keyboard works well with two thumbs and is well balanced when extended. I was told to expect availability in the United States in early 2004. Overall, I was pleasantly surprised and can't wait to try one out.