ATRAC 3
Nonetheless, the addition of audio playback and the higher-than-average screen resolution should set the Clie apart from its Palm OS-based competitors.
The new Clie will be able to play both MP3 audio files and those in Sony's digital format, ATRAC 3. The high-resolution colour screen will also improve video playback.
The Clie will use version 3.5.2S of the Palm OS, which supports USB. The device will also use a 33MHz Motorola Dragonball VZ processor and will come with 8MB of memory. A lithium-ion polymer battery will power the Clie. The Clie will weigh 162 grams and measure 7.32 cm wide, 12.07 cm tall and 1.75 cm thick.
The Clie will use Sony's Memory Stick media for expansion capabilities. There are over 5,000 developers creating applications for the Memory Stick, according to Sony. Company representatives expect digital camera and global-positioning system modules in 2002.
The Clie has been available in Japan for about a month. Pre-order service for US residents is available at Sony Style. There is no confirmation when it will be here and the rest of Asia.
Palm and Handspring introduced new slim models, the m500 series and the Visor Edge, last month.
16%
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