Third party developers are updating existing titles and offering brand new products that support Pocket PCs and Smartphones that incorporate the new Windows Mobile 5.0 software. I report on a satellite imaging program that lets you view current weather radar on your device. I briefly review a very accurate GPS receiver that consumes very little power. I take a closer look at an accessory that lets you take a closer look at your Pocket PC screen. All of my "discoveries" in this issue work with Windows Mobile 5.0.
WorldMate 2006 Pro makes travel easier
MobiMate (http://www.mobimate.com) recently released WorldMate 2006 Professional Edition v4.0, which now supports Windows Mobile 5.0 devices. New features include a complete overhaul of its Real-Time Flight Status feature, which supports 75 leading airlines and gives you up-to-date information about gate assignments, flight delays, and more (subscription required). They've also enhanced Global Weather features to provide up-to-date, animated satellite radar images via data provided by the Weather Channel. WorldMate is loaded with useful items for the frequent traveler, including global weather forecasts, world clocks, a currency converter and exchange rate service, a travel itinerary manager, a world day/night map, a global tax and tip calculator, a packing list organizer, a clothing size converter, and a global dialing code guide. It costs $74.95, which includes a one year subscription. The program is available for devices running Pocket PC 2002 or later software. A version of the program is also available for the Windows Mobile Smartphone.
WorldMate adds real-time, global weather forecasts, world clocks, a currency converter, and more.
Attachable magnifying lens is Magnifico!
Office On The Go Go (http://www.officeonthegogo.com) has reintroduced Magnifico PLUS, an attachable magnifying lens that makes your handheld's screen easier to view. All you do is open the clamshell device, slide your Pocket PC onto the base (it attaches with Velcro), and adjust the lens. It's very easy. When you're finished, Magnifico forms a sandwich around your PDA, protecting it and allowing it to fit easily in your pocket. Magnifico PLUS is priced at $49.99; it will work with a variety of handheld devices.
Magnifico Plus is an attachable magnifying glass that enlarges your view of the screen on a Pocket PC or other handheld devices.
Smart Blue—a small, accurate GPS receiver
SysOnChip, Inc (http://www.sysonchip.co.kr/eng/) has introduced Smart Blue, a 20-channel Bluetooth GPS receiver. It uses the very sensitive SiRF III chipset which provides excellent satellite tracking information to your GPS software. The GPS accuracy and integrity is also improved through the use of the WAAS/EGNOS system in areas where they are present. It's equipped with a rechargeable and replaceable 1100mA battery, which should last about 11 hours. It works with Bluetooth enabled devices and is available for $129.95 on BuyGPSnow.com.
SysOn Smart Blue GPS is a small and highly accurate Bluetooth GPS receiver.
TerrasatPix USA
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