Pocket PC 2002 Makes First Appearance
Further pushing the envelope for handheld computing, Microsoft will debut Pocket PC 2002 Thursday at the DEMOmobile Conference in San Diego. Code-named Merlin, the Pocket PC upgrade is aimed at business users, touting improved wireless networking and added support for virtual private networks. An updated Windows Media Player will provide for mobile entertainment, allowing users to watch video clips and listen to music stored on the device.
With the recent corporate push to mobile communication, Microsoft has made certain its OS steps up to the plate with added standards support. Pocket PC 2002 will enable the use of Bluetooth and 802.11b wireless networking. Users will also be now able to manipulate files on a device remotely via cabled or wireless connection.
Pocket PC 2002 will feature a more Windows XP-like interface, matching Microsoft's upcoming desktop operating system. Graffiti handwriting recognition, used in Palm OS, will also be added with the moniker, Block Recognition.
Unfortunately, the added features have driven up system requirements for devices planning to don the new OS, in turn raising handheld prices. Hewlett-Packard plans to unveil two new Jonada devices sporting Pocket PC 2002, with price tags of over $600 USD -- the cost of some low-end notebook computers.
Merlin is expected to officially launch October 4, amid a flurry of new Pocket PC devices from Compaq, HP, and Symbol.