Intermec seems to be on a roll with its CN3. Australian freight pickup and distribution service provider Coastal Midwest Transport is implementing its new Transporta dispatch system with the help of Interdev and Intermec CN3 units from Gamma Solutions. The GPS-enabled, Windows CE 5.0-based CN3 units scan barcodes and assessment notes, track proof of delivery signatures, then forwarded the data for real-time tracking of freight logistics. [See description on Industrial IT] -- Posted Thursday, February 26, 2009 by chb
Socket Mobile reports record revenue for 2008
Socket Mobile, Inc. reported revenue for the 2008 full year totaled a record $26.6 million, a 10% increase over revenue of $24.1 million for 2007. Socket Mobile said, "...customer response to our SoMo 650 handheld mobile computer has been excellent and we expect the SoMo to continue to increase its market acceptance. Since the introduction of the SoMo in 2007, we have shipped more than 10,000 units and unit sales have grown in every quarter. For the 2008 full year, SoMo sales grew to $4.7 million, compared to $1.3 million in 2007. -- Posted Friday, February 20, 2009 by chb
Microsoft announces Windows Mobile 6.5 and app store
At the Mobile World Congress in Barcelona, Microsoft announced Windows Mobile 6.5 that includes "an improved user interface that includes touch and other interaction modalities" by "stitching together the PC, the phone, and the web and bringing them closer together into a more seamless and simpler user experience." There's a new home screen and speedier access to major apps. Browsing is said to be better (including Flash Lite 3.1 support) on what from now on will simply be called "Windows phones." Microsoft also announced the Windows Marketplace for Windows phones. WinMo 6.5 phones will arrive this summer. [Read Microsoft press release for Mobile Congress 2009] Our take: Cosmetic improvements and emphasis on phones will do little to help Microsoft in the mobile space where Apple's elegance has redefined the market. What's needed is a deeper overhaul of all of Windows CE. -- Posted Tuesday, February 17, 2009 by chb
Glacier Ridgeline Q100: rugged PDA
The Glacier Ridgeline Q100 is an ultra-rugged PDA with IP67 sealing designed for data collection under difficult environmental conditions. The PXA270-powered runs either Windows CE 5.0 or Windows Mobile 6.1, offers exceptional onboard connectivity (3 USB, 2 serial, LAN) and numerous wireless options. A 3.7-inch full VGA display is available. [Read description and specs of the Glacier Ridgeline Q100] -- Posted Friday, February 13, 2009 by chb
Rugged Mentor Ranger tablet certified for Alltel
Mentor Engineering announced the certification of its Windows CE-based Ranger vehicle-mount tablet computer on the Alltel Wireless network. Alltel Wireless serves over 13 million customers across 34 states, including hard-to-service rural areas. Combined with Mentor's BBX wireless modem/AVL/telematic data collection device, the Ranger can be used in Vehicle Tracking and Monitoring systems. [See description and specs of the Mentor Ranger] -- Posted Thursday, February 12, 2009 by chb
Microsoft to launch My Phone service
Microsoft is launching a new service for Windows Mobile-based smartphones. Called Microsoft My Phone (very clever how that sounds...), the service syncs information to an online site so it's available should a phone get lost or replaced. You can also view and manage phone information with a browser and share photos. The service will be free. [See info on Microsoft My Phone] -- Posted Monday, February 9, 2009 by chb