HP delves into dedicated phones at 3GSM
updated 02:25 pm EST, Mon February 12, 2007
HP iPAQ Voice Messenger
Expanding from its original niche of PDAs and full-keyboard smartphones, HP on Monday revealed the iPAQ 500 series. Its creator hopes to straddle the line between pure cellphones and larger smartphones: while as slim as the former, the 500 is driven by Windows Mobile 6 and ships with Office Mobile for viewing Excel sheets and other files on the road. A keyboard is also unnecessary thanks to deep voice support, according to HP. Instead of typing out commands or e-mail, the new iPAQ accepts voice activation for menus and commands as well as audio responses to text messages.
Internet access is handled through either Wi-Fi or the typical EDGE connection, but has the unique addition of remote control. An IT head can remotely update, lock down, or even erase information on the phone as long as it's connected, saving users from an embarassing leak of private information or damaged software. Pricing is unlisted, but should be set in time for the phone's arrival in the Spring.
