Los Altos, California-based Palm Computing Inc is moving into the hardware business now that it is the property of Skokie, Illinois manufacturer US Robotics Inc, which bought the handwriting recognition software specialist for $44m in shares in September. It is ready with a new portable organiser-cum-communications device, according to US PC Week. Palm, creator of the Graffiti handwriting-recognition software, is reported to be developing a pocket-sized device that features Rolodex and diary func-tionality as well as desktop communications via a mini-docking station. Future versions of the unit are expected to support narrowband Personal Communication Services two-way paging networks. The pen-based organiser will measure about 3 by 5 by 0.5 and feature an operating system developed by Palm. The device is equipped with a small LCD as well as an on-screen keyboard. With Graffiti, users can write text, letter-over-letter, in a 1 square space of the LCD. The device will include Palm’s PalmConnect communications package, which automatically synchronises and backs up calendars, Rolodexes, and notes between Windows-based computers and handheld devices. PalmConnect and Graffiti will be built into the device’s ROM. The device is expected to be announced in January for under $300.
