Palm gets connected

Palm has unveiled two expandable handhelds that allow users to add memory modules, store books, images, applications, backup data or add modules for internet or network access.

The standard Palm m500 and the colour screen Palm m505 both have a Secure Digital (SD) and MultiMediaCard expansion slots about the size of a postage stamp and Universal Connector for adding USB-compliant hardware. SD and MultiMediaCard modules should interchangeable between other handheld computers, scanners and cameras that support the standard. The SD standard has 200 subscribers including Panasonic and Toshiba. Palm expects SD supporters to miniaturise their scanners, radios, modems, cameras and MP3 players onto SD modules. Palm also supports USB, the connection commonly used for linking desktop computers to peripherals. All future Palm PDAs will share the same USB HotSync Cradle, which connects the Palm to a desktop to synchronise applications such as email. When the Palms ship, travel information, a dictionary, games and books will be available as PalmPaks on a MultiMediaCard. A backup card and memory extension kit will also be available. Partners such Infineon are already planning software application cards, LandWare plans accounting packs and Kodak plans a module that will turn the Palm into a digital camera. The Palms will be available internationally from June, in English, French, Italian, Spanish, German and Japanese. Estimated US pricing is $399 for the m500 and $449 for the m505. by Andy Favell