Photograph: Marc SimonNo wireless-enabled handheld can guarantee an Internet connection wherever you go, but HP's new IPaq H6300 Pocket PC series at least gives you several chances by integrating GSM/GPRS cellular, 802.11b Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth capabilities. Though pricey, these handhelds should appeal to business travelers.
A preproduction model of HP and T-Mobile's $600 IPaq Pocket PC H6315 made a great first impression with its clean design, snap-on keyboard, and excellent wireless setup utility.
The H6315 also has a built-in camera with a digital zoom lens that can capture 640-by-480 images that looked surprisingly crisp and well lit.
The business-oriented My E-Mail service from T-Mobile can channel messages from several existing accounts--including POP3, Exchange, and Web-enabled Lotus Notes--into the H6315's inbox. However, I was unable to set the device to retrieve only new mail as it arrived, and my overloaded Notes mailbox crashed the device's inbox--a problem that could limit the H6315's usefulness.
Still, the H6315's triple-threat wireless capabilities make it worth a look if staying connected is a high priority.
Preproduction unit, not rated
Well-designed Pocket PC offers three flavors of wireless and a good low-resolution camera.
List: $600 ($500 after rebate from T-Mobile with activation of a new account)
Current Price (if available)
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