O2
announces XDA II
xda II to offer a built-in digital camera and full
multimedia messaging capability
02 July 2003
O2 today announced that it has further plans for
its widely acclaimed integrated pda and mobile handset - the xda
- and will introduce an xda II later this year. In addition to
all of the existing features [see note to editors], the xda II
will offer best in class capability for both consumer and business
customers. The xda II will be available in the UK, Germany and
Ireland before Christmas 2003.
For consumers, the xda II will offer a built-in
digital camera and full multimedia messaging capability plus the
opportunity to play high quality, colour games thanks to inbuilt
Java technology. The 65,000 colour display ensures that both photographs
and games are sharp and clear. Customers will be able to download
games from the popular O2 Games Arcade - offering a constantly
changing choice of colour 'arcade' style games. The xda II will
also offer access to O2's music service¹ enabling users to
select, retrieve and store the latest chart hits onto the device
- and listen to them in CD quality stereo sound.
For businesses, the xda II will be triband, and therefore may
be used worldwide. It will also offer optional wLAN capability
and Bluetooth for seamless connectivity. Customers will be able
to access a range of business services and applications, including
Xmail [see note to editors], Microsoft Mobile Information Server
and Extended Office which offer the ability to access corporate
email on the move. O2 will also be working with its numerous business
partners to offer further solutions for the xda II.
The xda II will run Microsoft's latest Phone Edition of Windows
Mobile 2003 for PocketPC, and retains its sleek stylish design.
The xda II will also feature an O2-branded 'control pad', designed
to drive incremental data usage by creating a complete O2 user
experience, and enabling customers to access services quickly
and easily. Colour, sound and visuals will make the experience
truly intuitive.
Kent Thexton, chief marketing and data officer,mmO2, commented:
"Even today, a year after its successful launch, the xda
from O2 is a leading device of its class. The xda II reinforces
our commitment to lead in the mobile data space. Combining a high
specification product, outstanding functionality, customer focussed
packages and transparent pricing, we believe the xda II will leverage
the success of the xda and continue to win us market share in
this market."
Key features are of the xda II are:
- triband capability to enable seamless use worldwide
- an integrated 640x480 pixels digital camera and full multimedia
messaging functionality
- Bluetooth and optional Wireless LAN capability
- a faster processor (Intel Xscale 400 MHz) facilitating faster
use
- improved talk and standby time
- the Phone Edition of Windows MobileTM 2003 Software for Pocket
PC
- also available as a pre-pay option
Sales of the widely acclaimed xda continue to show steady growth
finding a firm following amongst technology-friendly adopters,
many of whom are in the small business segment. More than 64,000
devices have been sold in UK, Germany, Ireland and Asia.
O2
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