Sony to Preview Handheld Device at PC Expo 2000
SAN JOSE, Calif. — June 26, 2000 — Sony Electronics Inc. today announced plans to preview a prototype of its Palm operating system-based personal digital assistant (PDA) at PC Expo 2000, from June 27 – 29, in New York City.
Sony has been proceeding with the implementation of the Palm operating system into an entirely new line of handheld electronics products since the company announced a licensing agreement with Palm Computing last November. Currently under development, Sony's Palm OS-based PDA will feature a Memory Stick(TM) media slot for removable and additional memory, Jog Dial(TM) control for easy navigation, and a sleek, industrial design. Additionally, the first generation PDA is planned to feature digital imaging capabilities.
"We are excited to show the progress Palm Computing and Sony have made to date for the development of Palm OS-based PDA with Memory Stick capability," said Keiji Kimura, president, Information Technology Company, Sony Corporation's Personal IT Network Company. "Sony is enhancing our customers' experience by offering easy-to-use features and entertainment capabilities in our new devices."
The preview of the product, which will be exhibited under glass, is intended to provide a glimpse into Sony's entrance into the handheld PDA market. Product availability is slated for early Fall.
"We are delighted to see the crystallization of the collaborative work between Sony and Palm in enabling the Palm OS to support Memory Stick," said Alan Kessler, chief operating officer of platform and products at Palm Computing.
"Considering their strength in producing high-quality consumer electronics products, I have no doubt that Sony's entry into the PDA marketplace will spur the growth of this category. I can't wait for the official introduction of Sony's first PDA."
Memory Stick
— The Memory Stick media slot located at the top of the PDA will allow users to backup information, freeing up valuable memory on the device.
— Sony plans to introduce a 128MB Memory Stick card by the end of FY '00, and a 256MB Memory Stick card in FY '01.
— Currently available Memory Stick cards range in capacity from 4MB to 64MB.
Jog Dial Control
— Jog Dial control will enable one-hand scroll-and-select operation of various applications, such as Calendar, Appointment and Memo Pad.
— Jog Dial control is a popular feature in Sony's current line of select consumer electronics products.
Design
— Prototype dimensions (subject to change in commercialized products): 2 3/4" (W) x 4 1/2" (H) x 5/8" (D).
— Sony's PDA can be always carried with you, letting you enjoy a variety of content anywhere, anytime.
Other key features
— Docking cradle
— Lithium Ion rechargeable battery
Sony Personal Network Solutions Company: Based in San Jose, the Personal Network Solutions Company (PNSC) of Sony Electronics markets branded computer products, including VAIO(R) notebook and desktop computers, Trinitron(R) and FD Trinitron displays and other multimedia products through distributors, resellers and consumer retailers. For additional information about Sony computer products, call 888-315-SONY, or visit Sony's World Wide Web at: http://www.sony.com/pc.
SOURCE: Sony Electronics Inc.
CONTACT:
David D. Yang of Sony Electronics Inc., 408-955-4027, david.d.yang@am.sony.com