Smells Like Teen (PDA) Spirit

Compact Limitations

The device is based on an 11-MHz processor, so users shouldn't expect speedy performance. Starting up the device takes almost a half minute, and starting applications can take a frustratingly comparable amount of time. While the games aren't particularly fast, they are very simple games--there's nothing available on the level of, say, Quake III. Backing up data from the Cybiko and installing new games and applications can also be a rather slow experience over the included serial cable. Furthermore, considering that some of the games take up between 10KB and 200KB, the included 512KB of memory seems insufficient. An optional 512KB memory card sells for about $20.

The Cybiko is certainly an interesting product that has some nice features. Although there have obviously been some corners cut to keep the costs down (such as the lack of any backlighting on the screen and the rather limited memory), it does a credible job of providing basic PDA functions. The wireless functions are also pretty cool--in a passing-notes-in-class sort of way--but obviously they won't be much use if you're the only kid in class who has them.

The company is hoping that Cybiko will achieve enough popularity for the wireless chat to become a hit. Although it's far from perfect, the Cybiko device might make an intriguing present for a teen with PDA envy. Plus, if you buy one before December 31, the company is offering a free MP3 player module (although it doesn't include a SmartMedia card to store the music).