With mobile phone handsets gradually morphing into fully-fledged handheld computers and many handhelds now sprouting phone-like abilities, the future isn't looking bright for bog-standard palmtop PCs. Undaunted by modern trends, however, Fujitsu Siemens has launched a new range of handheld PCs. This one, the Pocket LOOX 720, is the top dog - as its near-£380 price tag suggests.

Slim and relatively light, it has an extremely sharp, 640 x 480-pixel colour screen. On the software side of things, the Windows Mobile 2003 operating system comes pre-loaded, along with useful applications such as Pocket Word, Pocket Excel, a built-in media player and basic image-editing tools.

Hardware-wise, the Intel processor and memory (128Mb of system memory plus 64Mb of flash memory) help the unit to run applications and games smoothly, while both Compact Flash and SD memory card slots offer further expansion. Usefully, vital data can be committed to a certain portion of the memory, which means you can prevent loss of valuable data and settings in the event of a reset.

Also handy is the ability to remove the rechargeable battery and swap to a backup if necessary. There's even a slot on the (supplied) docking station for simultaneous charging of a second battery pack (not supplied).

Some handheld computers might come with infrared, Bluetooth or Wi-Fi, but Fujitsu Siemens has crammed in all three here, giving you a widest range of connectivity options possible, in addition to the standard USB, dock and memory card slot.

The device's most interesting feature, however, is its 1.3-megapixel camera. In theory, this could be an extremely useful addition while out and about, allowing you to leave behind your 'proper' camera. In practice though, the quality isn't great - particularly in low light conditions - although the built-in, flash-style light and small mirror (for lining up self portraits) are quite thoughtful.

The demand for such devices is perhaps becoming rather niche - business users and gadget fans, mainly - but if you happen to be in the market for a new handheld computer, Fujitsu Siemens' latest LOOX is definitely worth a look.

Contact:
Fujitsu Siemens 0870 600 0138
www.fujitsu-siemens.com

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