First Look: New Windows Mobile 5.0 Pocket PCs and Smartphones

We had the opportunity to test five brand new devices incorporating the Windows Mobile 5.0 OS and application suite. The first two are straight Pocket PCs. The second two are Pocket PCs with integrated phones (Phone Edition devices) and a new Smartphone. The following is my first impressions of the devices, based on a brief test period for each. Additional feedback for each device is found in the Pros and Cons section.

Dell Axim X51v Pocket PC

The X51v has a large screen and the power to run graphics-intensive video and games with ease.

With it large 3.7 inch VGA touch screen, dual expansion card slots, and integrated Wi-Fi and Bluetooth capability, the X51v is a great full-featured Pocket PC. The design of the Axim X51v is based on the X50v, a Windows Mobile 2003 Second Edition device Dell introduced last year. Our review of the X50v is posted on our Web site (http://www.pocketpcmag.com/_archives/feb05/cuttingedge.aspx). With the exception of the new "X51v" logo on the front, the device is outwardly identical to the X50v. The X51v has the same 624 MHz processor and Intel 2700G graphics accelerator as the X50v, which provide fast performance and snappy graphics. However, Dell has increased the amount of flash ROM to 256MB to support the "persistent storage" capability of the new OS. In addition, all devices in the Axim X51 series include the improved Bluetooth 1.2 software.

Like the X50 series that preceded it, the X51 is available in three models: the high-end X51v discussed above; the mid-level X51, which has a 3.5 inch QVGA touch screen, a 512 MHz processor, and 128MB of flash ROM, but is otherwise identical to the X51v; and the entry-level X51, which has a 416 MHz processor and lacks built-in Wi-Fi, but is otherwise identical to the mid-level X51. The fact that it's based on the X50 design means that the X51 series devices are compatible with cases and accessories designed for X50.

Bottom line:

Though based on a year-old design, the X51v is still a nice looking device with plenty of power and expandability. The X51v has a large screen and the power to graphics-intensive video and games with ease! Finally, the X51v has onboard Wi-Fi and Bluetooth capability. All things considered, this is a great choice if you're looking for a Pocket PC without an integrated phone.

HP iPAQ rx1950 Pocket PC

The iPAQ rx1950 is a good choice as an entry-level device for the new user.

This thin and attractive Pocket PC is a nice entry level device for the new user. It has a bright, easy-to-read QVGA screen, and a small, lightweight form factor that's easy to slip in your pocket and carry around all day. Outwardly, the rx1950 is nearly identical to the iPAQ h4150, which we reviewed in the Feb. 2004 issue (http://www.pocketpcmag.com/_archives/mar04/ipaqs.asp). However, the insides of the rx1950 are different. In addition to being a Windows Mobile 5.0 device, the new iPAQ sports a 300 MHz Samsung processor, which won't win any benchmark contests, but it's adequate for the day-to-day use of a non-power user. In addition, the Samsung processor is supposed to consume less power than the faster Intel processors, which should improve your battery life.

The rx1950 has a traditional layout, with the on/off button centered above the display, and status/notification lights on either side of it. Centered below the display is the five-way navigation pad and action button. On either side of that are two user-programmable application launch buttons (for a total of 4 buttons). The voice record button is on the top left edge of the device, and the battery release lever is on the right edge. The device comes with an 1,100 mAh rechargeable battery, but HP will also offer an optional 1,800 mAh extended battery for the rx1950.