HP's latest Ipaq is one of the most impressive handhelds we've seen in a while. Running Pocket PC (or Microsoft Windows Mobile 2003), the rx3715 Mobile Media Companion crams a range of functions into a slimline case.

To PDA aficionados the most obvious of these will be the rear-side lens, situated off-centre just above where a right-handed stylus user's left hand would cup the device. This serves a 1.2megapixel digital camera, which employs all 3.5in of the rx3715's 65,000-colour, 240 x 320 resolution display as a viewfinder. Image quality is more fun snapshots than artistic portraits.

Although the rx3715 will also shoot video (complete with audio), viewing captured footage will probably be enough to put you off bothering again. Fortunately, that's one of the rx3715's few letdowns (a second, more frustrating one, being the elfin control buttons and minuscule direction pad).

HP has included Bluetooth and Wifi facilities. Thanks to a pair of dedicated applications, these are both simple to set up and use. We had our review rx3715 wirelessly networked in one minute, and managed to get it talking to a Bluetooth mobile phone just moments later.

In addition to the usual Pocket PC applications - potted versions of Outlook, Word, Excel, and so forth - the machine includes HP-branded versions of Nevo's Mobile Media suite. These allow you to manage audio, video and image files, as well control infrared appliances in your home, using the rx3715's Irda eye.

As for portability, HP's latest PDA is easily pocketed and comfortably light. The company estimates a battery life of up to 12 hours, but we found around half that to be nearer the mark.

Contact: HP 0845 270 4222
www.hp.com

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