Mobile Computing News, Reviews & Tips
Mobile Software Review: Browser, E-Mail to Go
Want to take along your Microsoft Outlook e-mail, Web browser settings (including passwords and user IDs for sites requiring them), bookmarks, and appointments--but not your notebook?
Consider using the mobile Mozilla suite, which repackages Mozilla's free Firefox Web browser, Thunderbird e-mail program, and Sunbird appointment calendar as portable applications that you can install onto a USB flash drive and run on any computer. (The flash drive should be fairly large, such as 512MB.)
Scott Dunn reports that using the programs has simplified his life. "Now, wherever I go ... I have my inbox, appointments, bookmarks, and passwords with me," he writes.
PDA News: Award-Winning Handheld Apps
What are the best programs for handhelds? According to online PDA app retailer Handango's annual Champion awards, the Best Applications for Work are Mail2Fax (BlackBerry); SnapperMail Premier Bundle (Palm OS), and Pocket Informant 2005 (Windows Mobile). Read July's "PDA Pundit" for the rest of the winners.
Wireless News: Bluetooth Devices Vulnerable to Snooping
Your Bluetooth-equipped cell phone, PDA, or notebook could be susceptible to eavesdropping, according to a recent report from Israeli security experts. Hackers could figure out a Bluetooth device's security code, disrupt the connection, and require the user to retype the security code, thus giving the hacker an opportunity to capture the code.
What can you do about this? Turn Bluetooth connectivity off whenever it's not in use (you'll also save battery power) and use it cautiously in public places.
Notebook Accessory Review: Plextor's External DVD Drive
Older and smaller notebooks often don't have a built-in DVD burner. Plextor's PX-716UR ($230) should fill the void--it's PC World's top choice for an external DVD drive. The device offers stellar performance and a stylish design, and comes in vivid colors. Check it out in the External DVD Drive section of our Top 10 DVD Drives chart.
Wireless News: Another Cell Phone Wake-Up Call
Need more evidence that driving and chatting on the phone don't mix? I'm glad to oblige. A new report from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety says drivers using cell phones are four times more likely to be injured in a car crash. Read the IHS news release for more info.
This news comes on the heels of a study reporting that, in 100 cars tracked, cell phone use while driving was responsible for 644 traffic incidents. Get more info on that study, as well as safe driving tips, in my "Cell Phone Safety."
Gadget Accessory News: Solar-Powered Messenger Bag
Voltaic's Messenger bag ($229) allows you to carry a notebook with a 15-inch or smaller screen. But here's the interesting thing: It's got solar panels that are designed to charge portable electronics, including cell phones, PDAs, MP3 players, and cameras--but not, alas, notebooks. The bag ships with a set of adapters for common gadgets, and you can buy additional adapters if needed.
Suggestion Box
Is there a particularly cool mobile computing product or service I've missed? Got a spare story idea in your back pocket? Tell me about it. However, I regret that I'm unable to respond to tech-support questions, due to the volume of e-mail I receive.
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