PDA News - Stowaway XT For HP and Clie, CF WiFi $30, More Tapwave, Bunch of Game News

Think Outside is releasing a model that will work with most iPAQ's and Clie's this month for $99. I had the Palm version and was a huge fan. Check out the review. If you're thinking about an add on keyboard and your PDA is supported, look no further.

From the release:

As part of this new relationship, Fellowes is introducing the next-generation Stowaway XT keyboard into its retail channels. The Stowaway XT, an extra-thin mobile keyboard designed to provide a smart typing solution for Hewlett Packard and Sony PDA users on-the-go, will be on store shelves in May 2003. The original Stowaway Portable Keyboard also is available through Fellowes for HP and Sony PDA users.

"We are really excited about our partnership with Think Outside and the introduction of the Fellowes Stowaway XT," said Nancy Heaton, senior product manager for Fellowes Mobile Accessories Group. "We think it will be a hit for two reasons, first because of the comfort and ease of use of the full-size keyboard and also because of its sleek design."

"Fellowes is the leading PDA accessory company, so it was natural for us to turn to them as the distributor for the Stowaway line of keyboards," said Bob Olodort, CEO and president of Think Outside. "The original Stowaway keyboard has been a runaway best-seller among users of handhelds and mobile phones, and the next-generation Stowaway XT version takes the full-size, collapsible keyboard concept to the next level of mobility, functionality, convenience and style. We look forward to working with Fellowes to develop future products together that meet the needs of mobile computing users."

The Stowaway XT keyboard is half the thickness and 30 percent lighter than the original Stowaway keyboard. Like the original Stowaway keyboard, the Stowaway XT keyboard is touch-typeable, with full-size keys, full-size key spacing, full key travel and tactile feedback, just like the finest notebook computer keyboards. Constructed of an advanced aluminum alloy that is designed for years of rugged use, the Stowaway XT keyboard folds into a sleek, pocket-size accessory that is lightweight (it weighs less than 6 oz.) and ergonomically designed.

The Stowaway line of keyboards is best known for its ease of use and sleek design, and its ability to transform a PDA or mobile phone into a powerful computing and communications tool. Both the original Stowaway and the new Stowaway XT keyboard are the only 100% full-size mobile keyboards on the market today.

The plug and play keyboard is compatible with the HP/Compaq series (including iPAQ 3800, 3900 and 5400) and the Sony Clie series (including all NX, NR, SL, SJ and T series). The keyboard includes a built-in docking station, which means that no batteries or cables are required for use. Additionally, the keyboard uses very little power from the handheld.

The keyboard will be available through Fellowes starting in May 2003 at major retailers nationwide for a suggested retail price of $99. The original Stowaway Portable Keyboard also is available through Fellowes at a new price of $69.

CompUSA has this deal going right now, definitely worth it if you've been thinking about this purchase. Hit the CompUSA site and search for item #293356. Total cost is $69.99 - $40 rebate, shipped free.

Brighthand was at the launch party last night and has a fwe more details:

Whenever a new handheld is released, many users immediately begin examining its potential for playing games. According to Handango, a quarter of all handheld applications sold are games. Obviously, there is a strong interest in using these devices for gaming. A new Palm OS licensee intends to capitalize on this by releasing a handheld in which gaming is the primary focus.  More...

New racing game for Palm OS PDAs

Handy Entertainment is prepping a new racing game that looks pretty fun:

Take a bunch of stunning tracks flavored with the original graphics. (User-friendly track editor included.) Add smooth gameplay both on low-res and hi-res devices running Palm OS. Toss in an auto-focus camera whipping up the drive and action on the road. A pinch of terrific sound to finish with. And a bolt from the blue - crispy bonuses. Stir vigorously until thoroughly mixed up. We are serving a delicious mixture Palm OS gaming industry lacks, as yet.

Release is slated for July.

Dream Quest has released a new Cribbage game

A new addition to the Championship-series card games by DreamQuest Software, Championship Cribbage Pro offers a fun and exciting gaming experience for casual and hardcore fans alike. The player is in control, choosing from popular variations, five difficulty levels, and hundreds of game options.  One can challenge the playful computer champions, engage friends over a local network, or even enjoy competing and chatting online in DreamQuest Software's free Internet lobby anytime, anywhere, on any device. For more information or a free 10-game trial version, visit the product site.