FIGURE D

Audrey's email program looks easy to use. Click picture for a larger image.

Input methods
Like Palm organizers, Audrey has a clear-plastic stylus that can be used to interact with the touch screen. No Graffiti is required for the input of data. That's accomplished with the removable wireless keyboard, which I found to be somewhat smallish for my large hands. However, it should prove quite usable for most people and children.

Synchronization
While I didn't get to test Audrey's ability to HotSync with my own Palm device, I did witness several demos that featured seamless integration between the Audrey and Palm devices. All you have to do is attach your Palm device's cradle to Audrey, hit the HotSync button, and Audrey does all the rest. As mentioned previously, up to two Palm devices can be synchronized with the unit, but the device supports the viewing of multiple units' schedules in the datebook program. If you've got a Palm device-heavy household or small office, Audrey will solve a lot of scheduling and contact management woes.

The Web browser
At the launch, my test efforts focused mainly on the compatibility of the Web browser, which, while quite usable and very responsive, is not perfect. I was impressed that the unit had full support for secure HTTP (Hypertext Transfer Protocol) for e-commerce transactions, XML (Extensible Markup Language), and JavaScript, as well as support for Macromedia Flash 4 and RealAudio G2. However, the software lacks a Java Virtual Machine for running embedded Java Applets and can't play streaming video. Users anticipating a full PC-style Internet experience may walk away disappointed. Fortunately, since the unit is completely software upgradeable over the Internet, I was happy to hear from 3Com and QNX's engineers that a Java Virtual Machine and RealVideo were in the works for Audrey and will be made available to registered owners in the coming year.

Once 3Com provides me with a review unit, I'll be able to better review the unit's software and its ability to HotSync with Palm devices. Until then, you can see a demo of Audrey's features at 3Com's Web site. You can purchase one online or at your local computer retailer for about $499.

Steve Niles is Senior Editor for ZATZ Publishing. He is also an independent filmmaker and freelance writer. For more information, visit http://www.sn-films.com.