Toshiba's new e805 sits atop the company's updated Pocket PC line. The successor to the well-regarded e750 runs the latest Windows Mobile 2003 OS and will be available later this month for $600. (The e800 is identical but ships without the ArcSoft PhotoBase software.)
Upside: Like its predecessor, the e805 runs on a 400MHz Intel XScale PXA263 processor and includes built-in Secure Digital and CompactFlash slots, as well as Wi-Fi capabilities. In addition to ample memory--128MB of RAM, 32MB of ROM, and a separate 32MB of flash memory for data backup--the unit features Toshiba's Text-to-Speech and Voice Command software, as well as an application that can support 640x480 VGA resolution on the four-inch (diagonal), 65,000-color, transflective screen.
Downside: Toshiba includes software to enable Voice over IP (VoIP) functionality, but users will need a separate service subscription to take advantage of it. The inclusion of dual expansion slots offers maximum expandability but makes the e805 bulkier. And if you want to add on the USB-based accessories and VGA output, you'll need to purchase a $99 Presentation Pack accessory.
Outlook: Despite the e805's powerful specifications and intriguing software bundle, it faces stiff competition from the likes of HP's iPaq H4350, which also includes Bluetooth and a built-in keyboard--for $100 less. Check back for our full review in a few weeks to see how the e805 stacks up.