The phone and PDA are like one of those couples that can't live together and can't live apart. The rationale for the merger is obvious: The PDA provides the data and features, and the wireless phone provides voice and data services.
But previous attempts to marry the two have been failures (see the Qualcomm pdQ Smart Phone), primarily because they attempted to cram a PDA into a cell phone. The Handspring VisorPhone takes a different tack by adding wireless voice and data to the PDA using its Springboard expansion slot. The result is a sensible, easy-to-use, and powerful wireless phone that will appeal to PDA-centric people.
Designed to work with the Global Systems for Mobile Communications (GSM) wireless standard, the VisorPhone module consists of a radio and stubby antenna, buttons for the two main applications (and for powering up the phone), and a switch for alternating between two customisable rings. The 60 x 50 x 16mm module fits into the Visor's Springboard expansion slot and adds 84 grams. The module also has a built-in speaker, so you can hold it to your ear like a standard phone (using the built-in microphone on the Visor) or use the included hands-free headset with the headset jack.
By far the best feature of the VisorPhone is its simplicity, which is due, in large part, to the Springboard platform. Like all Springboard modules, the VisorPhone has all the software it needs onboard. Plug it in, and you're ready to make a call. The included lithium-ion battery, which is rated for 3 hours talk time and 3 days standby, charges through the Visor's desktop cradle, so there's no need to worry about an extra AC adapter.
The VisorPhone has two basic applications: Phone and SMS Text Messaging. The Phone App offers three different views -- Speed Dial (default), Dial Pad, and Call History. Advanced preferences are all available through the Phone App menus. For example, you can set two different ring tones (choose from a dozen varieties), volume levels and vibrate modes (on/off). You can dial directly from the Address Book (which also provides a Caller ID function).
Handspring VisorPhone
Company: Handspring
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