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Handspring Visor Somersaults Over Palm

Cool Palm-compatible handheld starts at $149 and offers tricks the original can't match.

By Yardena Arar, PCWorld   

Not only does the Visor mimic the Palm's size and shape, but it's based on the Palm operating system, so right out of the box it can run hundreds of Palm applications. On the preproduction unit I tested, I was able to HotSync my contacts, datebook, and other data using the same IntelliSync software that works with my Palm IIIx.

Where the Visor differs from the Palm is that it almost always outdoes its predecessor. The datebook offers three views the Palm doesn't provide (weekly, annual, and appointment list), the calculator adds several advanced functions, and the HotSync cradle's Universal Serial Bus connection moves data approximately four times faster than the Palm's serial hookup.

Elegant Expansion

The Visor's approach to expandability is impressively elegant: The back of the device comes off easily, exposing a small bay that accepts plug-in modules about two-thirds the size of a PC Card. In contrast, installing expansion cards on a Palm III or IIIx means fiddling with tiny screws.

Handspring itself will deliver memory, backup, and golf game modules at product launch; other modules (from Handspring and third-party vendors), including a music player, a wireless modem, and a Global Positioning System unit, will be available through Handspring's Web site later.

The only thing I like better about my Palm is the flip-up cover; Visor's plastic cover snaps off completely and is too easy to lose.

What a Deal

Visors will be sold only through Handspring's Web site through the end of the year. It comes in three packages.

The Visor Solo, with 2MB of memory, is attractively priced at $149. But since it doesn't come with a USB cradle you can't hot sync your data or install applications--unless you're sharing a cradle with somebody else, or have a friend who has the patience to beam you applications and data from another Visor or Palm with an infrared port.

Much better for most entry-level users is the $179 Visor: the same as the Solo but including the USB cradle. It's still a very good deal; in contrast, the basic Palm IIIe, also with 2MB of memory, goes for $229 but doesn't accept expansion cards. The $249 Visor Deluxe has 8MB of memory (like the slightly more expensive Palm IIIx). Its case comes in several iMac-inspired, translucent plastic colors in addition to the basic charcoal gray.

Happy Palm IIIx users have no cause to switch. But owners of earlier models may find Visor Deluxe a very versatile upgrade.