Sony announces Palm-based PDA

Sony marked its entry into the handheld PC market yesterday with the unveiling of its first personal digital assistant (PDA) based on Palm's handheld operating system.

The device, which is expected to ship this autumn, is being demonstrated at this week's PC Expo trade show in New York. It is the first prototype to be developed since Sony announced a licensing deal with Palm last November.

Sony's PDA will include its Memory Stick technology that offers removable and additional memory capacity.

The Memory Stick media slot, which is at the top of the new PDA, will allow users to back up information, thereby freeing up valuable memory space.

The device will also feature Sony's Jog Dial technology for one hand scrolling and the ability to select various applications including calendar and memo pad.

Measuring two and three quarter inches wide, four and a half inches high by five eighths of an inch deep, the PDA will ship with a docking cradle and lithium ion rechargeable batteries.

The first products are also expected to include digital imaging capabilities.