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60 GB Microdrive on the Horizon

Hitachi Global Storage Technologies has demonstrated a prototype storage technology boasting a data density of 230 gigabits per square inch. Translated into practical terms, device users can expect to see 20 GB microdrives in the near future, and microdrives with capacities as high as 60 GB within 5 to 7 years. These microdrives are about the same size as a CompactFlash card and may be offered in that format. In addition, since Windows Mobile 5.0 supports built-in microdrives, we may start seeing Pocket PCs and Smartphones with very high internal storage capacities.

Dell and Hewlett-Packard to offer Windows Mobile 5.0 upgrades for selected models

Both Dell (http://www.dell.com) and Hewlett-Packard (http://www.hp.com) will offer upgrades to Windows Mobile 5.0 to owners of existing Pocket PCs.

• Dell Axim X50/X50v owners will be able to purchase a CD with a user-installable ROM update sometime in the third quarter of this year.
• HP will offer upgrades to owners of the HP iPAQ hx2100, hx2400, hx2700 and hx4700 series of handhelds. These software upgrades are expected to be available this summer and can be purchased directly from HP.