Archos Reveals PMP Roadmap Featuring Wi-Fi, DTV and 3.5G Enabled PMPs
By David Walker |
July 7th, 2006
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PMP connoisseurs know the name Archos very well. The long time manufacturer of MP3 players and PMPs has garnered a reputation for expensive, but highly functional and highly desirable PMPs. Well, Engadget got the skinny on some upcoming developments out of the Archos camp, as revealed in the most recent Archos Investor kit. The upcoming model 504 appears to be an answer to the rumors about the upcoming Microsoft iPod “killer” by featuring a 30GB hard drive, 4.3 inch screen and – most importantly – support for Wi-Fi, GPS and a 3.5G cellular modem.
Additionally, it looks like the large format AV700 is getting a significant update as well. The AV700 TV will feature multiple antennae to pull in TV signals. Presumably, this means Freeview for those across the pond although OTA digital signals in the States is not out of the question either. If true, this could be a huge development for the PVR-ish AV700, allowing the unit to function as a stand-alone PVR without the need for any external devices at all. Details are sparse for now, but you can expect to hear much more in the coming months.
Linux is right way to go…but…
1. Cellular access still is pathetic. It cannot be relied upon for anything. Someday this must be made reliable.
2. Battery life will suck…guaranteed. Will we ever see a device which works for 1 day? 1/2 day? w/o recharging?
3. Device will be underpowered for all but singletasking non-complex applications.
From my experience with highest-powered iPAQ (Bulverde w/PPC OS) I can tell you you won’t want to multitask anything…and pregnant pauses abound.
…
I want to see more Linux PDAs as this is OS to use. I think Archos made correct decision to have unit be display only…don’t bundle speakers and keyboard ala PepperPad…it makes unit too big.