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The HP iPAQ 500 Voice Messenger is the firm’s first Windows Mobile 6 device, and its voice control function (which links recorded words to over 20 commands) has been given particular emphasis. Spoken messages can be sent as email attachments, while a text-to-speak programme can translate all incoming mail and messages.
Another key feature of the HP iPAQ Voice Messenger is the ‘over-the-air’ management capabilities, thanks largely to HP’s recent acquisition of Bitfone. It allows businesses to remotely manage and support the device’s performance, security and access to applications, data and networks. The technology also allows users to remotely erase sensitive data on lost or misplaced devices, configure and repair units, or provide updates and security applications.
“Busy professionals are constantly flooded with email and looking for ways to quickly and easily manage it and move on with their day,” said Dave Rothschild, vice president, Handheld Business Unit, Personal Systems Group, HP. “Our HP iPAQ Voice Messenger smart phone gives mobile users an easy way to manage all types of communications and stay focused on their business.”
The device runs on a 200MHz Texas Instruments OMAP 850 processor with 64MB of SDRAM and 128MB of ROM and is loaded with 802.11b/g wi-fi, Bluetooth 1.2 and quad-band GSM/GPRS/EDGE connectivity, while a MicroSD card slot is provided for extra storage.
It has a two inch, 176 x 220 display which can handle up to 65,536 colours. Weighing in at 102g with dimensions of 10.7 x 4.9 x 1.6cm, the compact device is powered by a 1,100mAh battery which provides up to 6.5 hours of talk time and 7.8 days on stand-by. Its been launched in Europe, but HP has yet to announce when it will be released in the UK.
