Palm pilots begin with Handspring

The company, formerly known as JD Technologies, was formed by Palm Computing founders Jeff Hawkins and Donna Dubinsky, who left 3Com earlier this year.

Handspring recently secured a Palm operating system license from 3Com as well as venture capital from several large firms, including Kleiner Perkins Caufield & Byers.

The company, which will be located in California, will now focus its efforts on developing consumer products that use the Palm OS. Its first releases are expected at the end of this year. Because they use the Palm OS, the devices will be compatible with applications developed for 3Com's PalmPilot.

Hawkins has assumed the role of chairman of the board and chief product officer, while Dubinsky will serve as president and CEO. Ed Colligan, the former vice president of marketing at Palm Computing, will become vice president of development and marketing.