Hewlett-Packard, Tuesday launched the iPAQ hw6515 Mobile Messenger, which it claims is the world’s first PDA (personal digital assistant) phone to integrate GSM (global system for mobile communications) and GPS (global positioning system) capabilities.
HP Malaysia’s country general manager of personal systems group, Wong Chun Fong, said the product is designed to give users greater access to data, e-mail and the Internet.
Wong said the iPAQ hw6515 is equipped with built-in keyboard and internal antennas for compact size and integrates voice and high-speed EDGE (enhanced data rate for GSM evolution) technology.
“With such technology, the device will give you really much faster access anywhere. On top of that, the GPS is able to track you by satellite wherever you are,” he told reporters at the product launch.
HP Malaysia’s market development manager, Alex Chang, said the product is able to provide users with precise directions through pictures and navigation.
The company, he added, worked closely with map maker, MappointAsia, on the GPS navigation and pictures for the Klang Valley area.
With faster data delivery rates, the iPAQ hw6515 enables mobile professionals to quickly stay connected to vital business information such as e-mail, spreadsheets and graphic presentations.
The product is priced at RM2,888 bundled with a map.
Wong said the company would offer accessories for the iPAQ hw6515 like extended battery, mini-SD (Secure Digital) cards and synchronised cables in stages from next month.
He added that with the introduction of the product, the company expects to strengthen its position in the fast-growing smart device market in the Asia-Pacific.