New CLIÉ Handheld Features More Power,
Mobility and Intelligence
Paris, 4 September 2003 - Having defined
the "multimedia handheld" category, Sony is now shaping a new chapter based on
the notion of a "network communicator."
This new CLIÉ PEG-UX50 handheld device
integrates both Wi-Fi ® (IEEE 802.11b) and Bluetooth ®(TM) wireless technologies. The
device represents the first in Sony’s anticipated line of many that will enable users
to access Web-based content and to communicate via the Internet. It also incorporates
hallmark features that helped to set CLIÉ handhelds apart in the market, including an
integrated digital camera, voice recorder, digital audio player and high-resolution wide
colour screen.
Processing the Possibilities
For the first time, Sony has designed, engineered and manufactured a new application CPU
for the handheld that has been optimised with three key benefits in mind: multimedia
processing, battery life and miniaturisation, which are essential factors for a premiere
mobile device.
Dubbed the Handheld Engine(TM), the new
application CPU (model CXD2230GA) is expected to find its way into future iterations of
CLIÉ handhelds. The processor features Dynamic Voltage and Frequency Management(TM)
(DVFM), a Sony developed and world’s first implementation technology designed to
maximise battery life. Depending upon the application, the new application CPU
automatically operates at a frequency that draws a minimum of power supply voltage by
monitoring its operation speed, resulting in the world’s first commercialisation of
voltage control functions.
By integrating various I/F functions
including two-dimensional graphics engine, digital camera and Memory Stick PRO media
interfaces onto a single chip, Sony was able to reduce the overall size of the CLIÉ
PEG-UX50 handheld.
Exploring Wireless Communications Options
Wireless communication is the focal point of the new device. Users will be able to
wirelessly access the Internet and share e-mail either via a Wi-Fi enabled local area
network (LAN) or a mobile phone with integrated Bluetooth technology that is set up with
data access service.
When users enter a new geographic
location, they can easily detect available Wi-Fi signals through the device’s
embedded "sniffer" technology. This application will automatically detect nearby
access points, virtually eliminating the connection set-up process.
The unit’s landscape screen
orientation, along with the optimised NetFront v.3.0 for CLIE(TM) web browser will make
for easy viewing of HTML-based Internet web sites on the new 480 x 320 pixel screen.
A Different Approach to Memory
Another stand-out feature is the auto-backup capability-- a first for any running the Palm
OS® software. When the device detects the battery level is extremely low, it
automatically backs stores information on to a separate built-in non-volatile memory. In
the event that battery life is depleted, information is retained and can be accessed by
simply recharging the unit with no synchronisation needed.
Other firsts include a dedicated 29 MB of internal memory for storing multimedia and data
files, including MP3 audio, Movie Player format (MPEG-4 compatible video, JPEG still image
and office document files). For additional storage, the unit features a dedicated Memory
Stick PRO(TM) media slot that accommodates both the advanced Memory Stick PRO and standard
Memory Stick® removable media.
Sony Connectivity
Sony products are the essence of simple connectivity. They are designed to connect quickly
to each other and to the world beyond so that every owner, from the novice to the
enthusiast, can easily enjoy the benefits of digital networking. For example, you can
create, edit and share your own movies using GigaPocket on a VAIO and transfer it to a
CLIÉ to view on the move. You can shoot, view, store and print your own digital photos
with a CLIÉ, a VAIO and a video printer or display the photos on your television, cable
free, using a Memory Stick. Such simple connectivity creates a bridge between the worlds
of AV and IT and gives the user complete control over their digital environment.
