HP launches first Personal Digital Assistant (PDA) with integrated GPS navigation and voice technology

The small device is considered one of the best in the world for connectivity, productivity, and mobility for business and personal communication.

Commenting on the key highlights of the new iPAQ hw6500, Anil Ghandi, General Manager for Personal Systems Group (PSG), HP Middle East said that the new device would prove equally adept for business and personal communication, particularly for people constantly on the move. "Featuring a built-in keyboard, the iPAQ hw6500 allows users to compose email, notes, text and instant messages - easily and effortlessly. With data delivery rates up to four times faster than dial-up, it allows them to quickly connect, and stay connected, to vital business information. And the iPAQ hw6500 Mobile Messenger also provides rich media and data services that are well suited for mobile entertainment."

Ghandi stated that the new device aptly showcased HP's worldwide mail and messaging strategies designed to address the needs of mobile professionals to access business data seamlessly and securely. "There are four important advantages to using the new iPAQ: faster and easier communication, secure connectivity, rich messaging capabilities and hand-held navigation," he said.

Equipped with GSM, GPRS and EDGE (Enhanced Data rates for Global Evolution) technologies, users can have a faster and simpler access to high quality voice and worldwide data services, as well as Internet-based content at greater download speeds. "These advanced technologies can help users perform at higher levels of productivity by providing real-time access to critical business systems and applications," Ghandi explained, adding that the Microsoft® Windows Mobile™ 2003 Second Edition software (Phone Edition) helped maintain critical data connections. "This enables instant messaging, downloading of emails and browsing the Web even after receiving a call or accidentally turning off the device.

Users who are familiar with the Microsoft® Exchange 2003 environment can take advantage of a solution that goes far beyond basic text-based email messaging to allow full synchronisation to their inbox, calendar and contacts.

Instant messaging enables real time communication, email inboxes can be set to receive information from multiple accounts, or synchronise calendars, contacts lists and tasks." The built-in HP Photosmart camera also allows users to take a picture and share it by sending it wirelessly from the device to any email address in the world.

The iPAQ hw6500 Mobile Messenger is the first Personal Digital Assistant (PDA) with integrated GPS navigation and voice technology, and is geared to address e-mail and data security issues. The GPS Navigation on this device is powered by TomTom, and offers single touch directions.

The iPAQ hw6500 Mobile Messenger is a small, sleek device that has a height of 118 mm, weight of 71 mm and depth of 18 mm, weighing in at a total of 165 gms.