i-Mate intros PDAL touchscreen smartphone

Following the recent introduction of its JAQ3 handheld, i-Mate today revealed its PDAL smartphone. Described as one of the smallest PDAs available by its creator, the PDAL saves space by eschewing a keypad in favor of a 2.4-inch touchscreen that can be used to place calls as well as interact with the phone's extensive data features. i-Mate's device is a true world phone and can connect to all four major GSM bands as well as EDGE broadband and WiFi hotspots. A message notification light similar to that of the BlackBerry also exists to help take advantage of the phone's support for real-time "push" e-mail. The company has not announced a formal launch or price, but may bring the phone to North America at a later date.