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Jun. 14, 2005

Taiwanese pager maker Unication demonstrated a Linux-based PDA at Computex last week. The Magpie offers unique and sophisticated features, including an integrated FM transmitter, WiFi, and full Opera browser. However, the device has a low-quality plastic case reminiscent of handheld gaming devices, according to BargainPDA.

(Click for larger view of Unication Magpie)

The Magpie is based on a 32-bit RISC-based Samsung S3C2410X processor, clocked at 203 MHz. Several Taiwanese Linux providers offer reference designs for the chip, including Esfia and Mizi Research. Neither company immediately confirmed their involvement in creating the Magpie.

The Magpie includes 64MB of NAND Flash, and runs in 64MB of SDRAM. Storage can be expanded through SD memory cards, or through USB storage devices -- the Magpie includes both host and client USB ports.

The PDA has a QVGA (320 x 240) color LCD touchscreen that can pivot between clamshell/landscape mode and PDA/portrait mode. It also has a built-in speaker and microphone, and audio I/O ports.

The Magpie includes an FM transmitter, and media player software that can broadcast mp3s and other music files to nearby stereo equipment, Unication claims. The PDA also has a built-in WiFi radio, and a VoIP (voice-over-IP) client (screenshot), enabling the Magpie to be used as an Internet phone. VoIP performance is improved by echo cancellation and noise suppression.

Additional features include:

Hardware buttons for VoIP phone, Media player, addressbook, and home
IrDA
Calculator
Voice recorder (screenshot)
Email client
Image viewer
Media player (screenshot)
Memo pad
Scheduler
Timer
Paint software
To-do list
Games

The Magpie comes with an 1100mAhr lithium-ion battery, AC adapter, and car adapter.

According to BargainPDA, which saw Unication demonstrating the device at Computex, the Magpie has a plastic case that makes it light but somewhat fragile. If the device does well, the company may improve the case and build quality, according to BargainPDA.

The BargainPDA story can be found here. Unication offers an entertaining promotional video showing how its products bring families closer together, here.

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