Mobile Computing News, Reviews, & Tips
PDA Review: GPS/Wi-Fi Gadget Isn't There Yet
PDAs with built-in GPS technology are undeniably cool. But how good are they at getting you where you want to go?
In the case of the new Pharos Traveler GPS 525, the answer is: not as good as you'd like, according to PC World's Denny Arar. The $600 Windows Mobile PDA includes a built-in GPS receiver and a Wi-Fi adapter. Pharos even preloaded the Windows Mobile version of Skype's Voice over IP software and included an earbud headset, so you can make phone calls. But the device had some trouble acquiring GPS signals, and its interface is a bit difficult to navigate.
First Look: Apple's First Intel-Based Notebook
The MacBook Pro earned lots of attention as Apple's first notebook based on an Intel processor. Does the portable live up to its hype? Macworld's Jason Snell thinks so. The MacBook Pro is noticeably faster than earlier PowerBooks, though some processor-intensive programs such as Microsoft's Virtual PC haven't been rewritten yet to take advantage of the new processor. With those applications, you may see little performance gains, if any. The MacBook Pro is available for $1999 and $2499, depending upon specs.
Wireless News: Google News on the Go
Google has optimized its news page for mobile phones. When you visit Google from your Web-enabled phone, you'll see a link labeled News. Click it, and Google displays articles that have been formatted for mobile devices--which means faster loading and less scrolling. The service is currently available to U.S. users.
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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