Audiovox Thera - SmartPhone, PocketPC or Both

By
iApplianceWeb
(03/25/02, 11:34:48 AM EDT)

Audiovox Communications Corporation, a manufacturer of handsets, is now retailing a Windows Powered Pocket PC based hadset branded, Thera. Audiovox Thera (a word that means opening or gateway in Greek) opens a new door in mobile communications and computing by providing fully-integrated CDMA2000 1X wireless voice and data communications capabilities in a single, compact, Pocket PC device is size is 3 inches by 5 inches.

Verizon Wireless, with 29.4 million U.S. subscribers, will distribute and market this new wireless Pocket PC, beginning this spring, to enterprise customers through its national sales team, to customers in specially designated Verizon Wireless retail locations nationwide, and on the company's Internet site.

Thera combines the ease of use and comprehensive functionality of Microsoft Windows Powered Pocket PC 2002 software for versatile and powerful mobile computing applications. Thera uses Sierra Wireless's new SB555 Embedded Module and Watcher modem management software to enable wireless phone calls, Internet and E-mail access anywhere within Verizon Wireless' network. The unit is manufactured for Audiovox by Toshiba Mobile Communications Company.

When used on Verizon Wireless' new Express Network, Thera will provide mobile data transmission speeds of 40 to 60 kilobits per second, supporting high-speed wireless connectivity for Web browsing, E-mail and mobile E-commerce functions with simultaneous audio, video and text data services. ACC's Thera Pocket PC can also be used as a dual-band (CDMA 800MHz and 1900MHz) wireless phone.

Thera is powered by Microsoft® Windows Pocket PC 2002 software, running on an Intel® Strong ARM(TM) 206MHz processor. It comes equipped with all of the Pocket PC features and functionality including: Microsoft Pocket Internet Explorer, Pocket Outlook, Pocket Excel, Pocket Word, MSN Messenger, Microsoft Reader and Windows® Media(TM) Player.

The unit's wireless phone and Internet access capabilities are enabled by Sierra Wireless's new SB555 high-speed Embedded Module for CDMA2000 1X and Watcher modem management software. Thera represents the first consumer application for the ultra-compact SB555, which supports dual-band CDMA frequencies, high-speed packet data, voice communications and two-way SMS (Short Message Service). Sierra Wireless's Watcher software allows the user to easily configure, control, and monitor the Sierra Wireless modem, making Thera operate as a state-of-the-art wireless handset.