Handspring jumps on colour bandwagon

PDA maker Handspring has unveiled two colour screen handhelds aimed at both ends of the user scale.

The Treo 270, priced at $499, is a full-colour version comprising mobile phone, wireless applications like email and internet browsing, and a Palm OS organiser.

It will also have a back-lit keyboard and longer battery life, the company said.

Also available soon is the Treo 90, a lightweight organiser with a built-in keyboard and full-colour display priced at $299. It is expected in Europe later this year.

"While the Treo 270's display adds richness to colour apps like internet browsing and games, it also significantly improves text-based apps like email because of its enhanced readability," said Joe Sipher, vice president of product marketing at Handspring.

PDA sales are under pressure in a climate where IT managers are unwilling to invest, and Handspring is gambling on colour to attract buyers.

The company recently had to cut the price of several lines.