Handspring Blazes the Trail for Handheld Internet Access

By Susan Hospod
iApplianceWeb
(05/29/01, 11:36:45 PM EDT)

Handspring's new version of Blazer, a Web browser for Palm OS handhelds, is now available. The Blazer browser provides handheld computers with fast access to a full range of Web content. Using Blazer and a modem, owners of Palm OS handheld computers can get a full Internet experience using Blazer's support for color graphics, personalization, bookmarks, and strong security.

Handspring has added enhanced speed and security to its new release, including encryption technology from Certicom to support access to secure Websites.

Through partnerships with Microsoft and Google, Blazer also gives users access to rich, handheld-friendly content. A mobile QuickStart page, powered by MSN Mobile, offers one-touch access to news, stock quotes, driving directions, weather, and more. Google's search capability enables users to conduct fast, accurate Web searches. Furthermore, a directory of mobile sites provides Blazer users with a listing of third-party sites with optimized content for small-screen devices.

Blazer runs on handhelds that use Palm OS 3.1 or higher, including all models of the Handspring Visor, Sony Clie, and Palm series III, V, M100, and M500 connected organizers.Handspring will also bundle Blazer at no additional charge with the Handspring VisorPhone as part of its new Wireless Internet Access Suite, a suite of applications for wireless e-mail, Web browsing, and messaging.

The Blazer browser is available immediately for purchase from Handango and Palmgear for $19.95. Customers who own the Handspring VisorPhone Springboard module can obtain the browser for free at www.handspring.com/software/visorphone_sw.jhtml.