Sony Electronics has launched two new Clie handheld devices, the PEG-UX40 and PEG-UX50, aimed at enhancing wireless communication, portability, and multimedia functionality. These models feature built-in wireless connectivity and key processing components developed by Sony. They will be released in Japan in early August and in the United States in early September.
“The new Clies represent an innovative design,” said Allen Leibovitch, IDC manager of wireless semiconductor research, in an interview with TechNewsWorld. “They’re somewhat like a compact version of a tablet PC.”
The PEG-UX40, priced at $600, includes Bluetooth technology for wireless connections with other devices like mobile phones and laptops. The PEG-UX50, at $700, offers both Bluetooth and WiFi capabilities for connecting to wireless networks and sharing resources, such as internet access.
Both devices operate on Palm OS 5.2 and feature a novel design akin to a small notebook with a screen that swivels 180 degrees. “We’re redefining the concept of a PDA,” stated Mark Viken, senior vice president of information technology products at Sony Electronics.
Innovative Processing
These Clie models are the first in the line to feature integrated wireless technology. Leibovitch noted, “It’s impressive that they managed to include both WiFi and Bluetooth without external antennas.”
Additionally, these are the first Clies to utilize Sony’s proprietary silicon. “This shift from using third-party chips could impact Intel’s mobile chip sales,” Leibovitch observed, suggesting that Sony’s in-house chips could disrupt Intel’s market.
Sony has designed the new processor to excel in multimedia performance, battery efficiency, and compactness. Mirroring Intel’s Xscale processor approach, Sony’s chip adjusts its operating frequency to optimize power usage, making it a leading example of voltage-control technology.
Beyond the Basics
Sony envisions these devices as more than just tools for data management. “We see beyond the traditional handheld concept,” said Masanobu Yoshida, president of handheld computing at Sony.
The new Clies come equipped with a digital camera, voice recorder, digital audio player, Memory Stick expansion slot, and a high-resolution color screen (480 x 320 pixels), among the best in the handheld market.
“The battery, screen, CCD, and chip are all Sony-produced,” Viken noted. The CCD sensor is integral to the digital camera, the battery is lithium-ion polymer, and the chip is the Sony CXD2230GA.
The chip, which operates at up to 123 MHz, includes a graphics engine, camera interface, and Memory Stick interface. It is produced at Sony’s Nagasaki plant, the same facility that will manufacture the chip for the upcoming PlayStation 3.
Market Trends
The handheld market has recently experienced a decline, with global shipments dropping 21 percent to 2.45 million units in the first quarter, according to IDC. Both business and consumer demand has softened despite new product releases and lower prices.
In the first quarter, Sony fell to third place in market share, behind Hewlett-Packard. HP holds about 18 percent of the market, while Sony has just over 16 percent. Palm retains the top position with a 36 percent market share.
If Sony can leverage its in-house component manufacturing to lower production costs, it might enhance its competitiveness and regain market share.