Guest post by UMPCPortal reports on a new 3G-connected handheld computer called the PsiXpda: PsiXPDA UMPC Launches in UK, US, Europe. Apparently, PsiXpda is made by a former Psion engineer with rights to use the Psion 5 series design, which explains that familiar sliding clamshell shape.
Psion was the original PDA maker, creators of the world’s most popular mobile phone operating system (called EPOC back then, now known as Symbian) and inventors of the term “netbook“.
Although producing admired (even loved), fast, stable and energy-efficient machines, Psion as a consumer PDA company went to the wall as it dithered in the “one box vs. two boxes” debate (would consumers prefer an all-in-one computing and telephony device (i.e., a smartphone), or a PDA with nice screen and keyboard connected to a separate mobile phone?). Their last EPOC-based device available was a sub-notebook, the Series 7 (the corporate version was the “Psion netBook”), released in 2000; they merged with Teklogix soon after and refocused on handheld devices like those used in warehouses.
The PsiXpda is a new handheld/UMPC that appears to keep the old Psion flame alive: small, fast, that unique clamshell. However, it lacks the other main attraction of the original Psion: the light, fast EPOC/Symbian operating system. Instead, it uses Microsoft Windows XP; the developer is aware of Google’s Chromium OS, but is taking a wait-and-see approach. He seems to have no comment on the now open-sourced Symbian.
I had a 5mx for a while. It was the best small keyboard I’ve ever used. I could touch-type on it, which is more than I can say of a lot of the 85%-scale keyboards on netbooks these days. A 5mx form-factor with wireless, a color screen, and a modern OS (i.e., not Windows XP or Windows CE or EPOC) would be something I’d love to spend money on.
Well, if that’s not an EPOC fail, I really don’t know what is.
With smart phones in the market, PDAs aren’t really needed.
Edited 2009-12-11 00:44 UTC
I suppose not everyone would want both the PDA and phone integrated, though off hand I can’t actually think of a reason for it. The only thing I can think of is cost, as unlocked smartphones can cost more than a PDA and to get them through your cel provider may require you to change to a more expensive plan you might not need or want. Plus, many smartphones are smeared with carrier crapware that can really drag down their performance if you get them through your provider.
My phone gets dropped, thrown at things, drowned and accidentally left out in the countryside. I get away with that because it’s a small, relatively robust and not too expensive bit of kit. It also fits in my pocket conveniently.
I would certainly make use of a PDA with an integrated 3G modem but I couldn’t use it as my primary phone without rearranging my life to avoid damaging the thing. So personally, I’d go for a small cheap phone that can *always* come with me, plus a PDA+3G modem that I can take with me when I know I can keep it safe.
Favourite would be if I could share the same phone number across two devices, allowing me to take the tough, cheap phone out unicycling but only have to carry one device if I bring the PDA-phone.
I realise I might not be a typical user but wishing to have a compact, robust phone is going to be in tension with a decent screen and keyboard for the next few years so I wouldn’t think I’m that beyond the normal consumer either.
Perhaps you could consider buying a used N810 (should be cheap now as N900 is out) and connect it to internet through a 3G phone (with bluetooth).
One big reason is battery life. My simple phone can go 7-10 days before it needs to be charged. Most smart phones I’ve used are lucky to manage 2 days. In several situations it’s nice be able to use your PDA without worrying that it will completely kill your phone.
Another reason is robustness. A simple phone with a small screen can take a lot more abuse than a smartphone which is just one huge screen.
The big minus for smart phones is that they can receive phone calls.
I still use a PDA. An old Palm as a matter of fact. Why? First, cell phone plans are really expensive, especially here in the US. Second, I’m not interested in people being able to reach me anywhere; I don’t like having a leash. Also, I love the ease of use of the basic Palm apps; and Graffiti beats any on screen keyboard. I guess I’m just turning into an old fart… it’s ok, I can live with that.
I like PDAs because they have a feel of operating a computer with a very simple operating system. People love simplicity and perhaps this is why some people still cling onto PDAs.
I still have my Psion 3a, works fine.
Years ago a number of people at work had the Psion 5 or the Revo, but I swore with my 3a.
If only I could sync it with OS X!
It is in fact a rebadged EKING S515:
http://www.pocketables.net/2009/10/eking-s515-mid-priced-and-shippi…
(Info gleaned from the Register)