The UMPC arrives and so do a host of new products

The Pharos iGPS-500 is a powerful new GPS receiver designed to work with the groundbreaking new class of Microsoft Ultra Mobile PCs. As business becomes ever more global, the iGPS-500 will provide mobile professionals with advanced location and navigation capabilities as a part of a comprehensive desktop experience on a lightweight mobile PC.

Ultra-Mobile PCs make it easier to connect, communicate, accomplish and be entertained. UMPC combines the full functionality of the PC with the power of the Windows XP Tablet edition and other innovative new technologies from Microsoft, such as new Touch Pack software. With full Windows functionality and new software technology to enhance on-the-go use on smaller devices, the UMPCs’ highly mobile and affordable hardware design results in a smart mobile lifestyle companion, for home, work - and everywhere in between. Ultra-Mobile PCs run full versions of the Windows XP operating system so existing applications built for Windows will run right away.

UMPC hardware has all the latest technologies such as USB 2.0, 802.11 WiFi and Bluetooth technologies. Some even come with SDIO and CF slots as well, giving consumers a wide arrange of connection options. Pharos’ iGPS-500’s unique modular design allows users to add GPS positioning and navigation capability via the USB, CompactFlash, SDIO port or BluetoothTM wireless connection, making UMPC an excellent companion for business travelers and everyone on the go.

The iGPS-500 features the highly sensitive SiRFstarIII GPS architecture. With its rapid time-to-first-fix and high sensitivity, the iGPS-500 is engineered to meet the rigorous demands of wireless and handheld LBS applications, and provides superior location performance, both indoors and out. The iGPS-500 works seamlessly with Microsoft Streets Trips 2006, AutoRoute 2006, and MapPoint software as does its predecessor, the iGPS-360.

Pharos expects to ship the iGPS-500 in April 2006

For more information about Microsoft’s Ultra Mobile PC, please visit http://www.origamiproject.com/ and http://microsoft.com/umpc