O2 Xda IIs

The O2 Xda IIs, a prime example of convergent PDA, is the next model up from the much-lauded Xda II. While the processor and memory specs remain the same, new features such as shortcut keys, Wi-Fi and a full keyboard set this model apart.

In design terms, the biggest change since the Xda II is the addition of a slide-out, backlit QWERTY keyboard. Although at first glance the dainty, close-set keys seem too small for the average hearty thumb, their raised surface makes typing surprisingly efficient.

The front of the Xda IIs is busier than its predecessor, featuring six modifiable shortcut keys, a five-way navigation button, and the standard multi-function red and green call buttons. On the sides are a volume control, camera button, voice recorder key, and a slot for your memory card of choice (assuming you like to limit yourself to SD or MMC).

One niggling design downer is the fact that the microphone for voice calls is located on the bottom of the phone, to the left of the reset button. This spells trouble for left-eared phone users, who may obscure the microphone and end up sounding like they're talking through a large fluffy pillow.

With so many shortcut buttons and menu features, it may take a while to become familiar with all that the Xda IIs has to offer, especially for intrepid, "manuals are for wusses" owners. Exploring the programs and settings does yield many rewards though, and the ability to customise the start menu, shortcut keys and default display makes personalisation easy.

The Xda IIs runs Windows Mobile 2003 for Pocket PC, and comes with Media Player, Pocket Word and Excel, MSN Messenger, and programs for viewing PDF and PowerPoint files. While typing an annual report on the itty-bitty keyboard would be impractical (and downright frustrating), reading text documents and basic editing is a breeze.

With PDA phones being marketed as on-the-go PC stand-ins, the method and ease of text entry is of supreme importance. The Xda IIs offers three options: the distinctive QWERTY keyboard, an onscreen keyboard you can tap with the stylus, and handwriting recognition. While the thumb keyboard is probably the fastest, the recognition software is an unexpectedly worthy competitor, even translating messy scrawls and frenzied cursive.

In terms of connectivity, the Xda IIs offers a veritable treasure trove, allowing the use of GPRS, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth and IR. There is also an integrated wireless LAN and the ability to configure a VPN server, which provide yet more legitimate excuses to work from home.

As with all PDA phones, the flip side of a crystal-clear screen and a tantalising wealth of connectivity is a compromised battery life. While claiming a 25 percent longer battery life compared to the Xda II, the IIs still requires a charge every day or so, depending on usage. There are several ways to squeeze more juice out of the Li-ion power source though, including reducing the brightness of the display, turning off connections when they're not required, and going easy on the backlight.

One other nitpick is the fact that, like the Energizer battery man, the Xda IIs will never say die. Pushing the power button causes the PDA to enter sleep mode, but if a message is received or an alert occurs, the display will wake up. This could lead to potentially embarrassing accidental phone calls if the IIs has found its way to the bottom of a bag or briefcase.

The cool factor is high, the options for customisation are plentiful, and the quad-band antenna makes it perfect for travellers. Despite a few minor drawbacks, the O2 Xda IIs is a solid, feature-packed choice if you can handle the steep price tag.

O2 Xda IIs
Company: O2
Price: AU$1,599