Handspring unveils expandable PDA

Handspring has launched a high-end 'thin and light' version of its Visor personal digital assistant (PDA) that features a new removable expansion slot.

Called Visor Edge, the device weighs just 4.8 ounces, offers 8Mbs of memory and is based on Motorola's 33Mhz DragonBall VZ processor. The metal case comes in silver, blue or red and includes a flip-up metal cover.

Chief product officer Jeff Hawkins explained that the removable expansion slot would not replace the Springboard slot featured in Handspring's existing Visor PDAs. "We will support those developers that want to make modules that connect directly to Visor Edge," he said.

In Springboard's place is the Edge Connector, which accepts a Springboard adapter. Other expansion products can be built specifically to fit the design of Visor Edge, and the new device is compatible with all existing Springboard modules that support Palm OS 3.5.

Visor Edge also features Fast Lookup, which allows users to access address listings using only the device's buttons, and a silent alarm that blinks as a visual reminder of appointments. It also includes USB support and Mac OS compatibility.

The device will initially ship in the US in late March, with international versions becoming available at the beginning of April.

The launch follows last week's unveiling of a new entry-level handheld computer by Handspring rival Palm. The company is also expected to debut a high-end device that includes an improved display and upgraded system software.