HP has reinvigorated its iPaq handheld range with the launch of five new devices, plus a host of new software programs, accessories and services designed to attract business users.
The refreshed lineup includes two new 3G smartphones, a GPS-only device and two standalone PDAs.
Many of the new handhelds have a strong business bent, so it's no surprise that HP is also pitching the latest version of its Enterprise Mobility Suite. The suite is a self-service portal that will allow IT managers to set up, diagnose and update software. Using this software managers will also be able lock/unlock lost or stolen devices, as well wipe data from them. Furthermore, HP will also be offering a customisation service, allowing iPaqs to be shipped with an organisation's network and registry settings pre-configured, and company-specific applications and content pre-loaded.
Non-corporate buyers may be attracted by the 100 Series entry-level PDA and the 300 Series standalone GPS unit. Although it will be the most basic model in the iPaq line, the 100 Series seems to be pitched above the bare bones Palm Z22, with a large 3.5-inch screen, Bluetooth and Wi-Fi. Most left-field of the new models is the 300 Series, which like standalone GPS devices from established names like Mio, Navman and TomTom, features a custom designed interface and no PDA functionality.
More information on Australian pricing and availability is expected to be announced later this week.
Pam Carroll travelled to New York as a guest of HP.
