jkOnTheRun

PhatWare releases a skinnier PhatPad: v4.1

PhatWare gives PhatPad an upgrade; version 4.1 was just released for Pocket PCs and Tablets / UMPCs today. The new version doesn't get phatter; it's actually a slimmer footprint by 10% over the prior version. If you're not familiar with the product, here's quick overview from the latest press release:

"PhatPad allows users to draw pictures, jot notes or put a mixture of pictures and typed text on a virtual scratch pad. The program uses new digital ink technology, which provides a very smooth ink flow, so it feels like writing on an actual piece of paper. While working with the note editor, PhatPad offers standard editing commands in addition to a customizable pen palette and variable pen width."

If you don't need a full-feature set of OneNote, PhatPad might do the job for you at a significant savings: right now you can grab the application for $34.95. Among the many new features is support for Windows Vista as well.

ActiveSync 4.5 for XP released

If you decided to avoid Vista and Windows Mobile Device Center, you may want to check the ActiveSync download page since version 4.5 is now available. This version supports devices running good ol' Pocket PC / Smartphone 2002 through Windows Mobile 5. MoDaCo shares some of the features and benefits right here, so take a look before you take the plunge!

SPB Mobile Shell: 5 out of 5 from Aximsite

Yesterday, SPB released SPB Mobile Shell for Windows Mobile 5 and according to this review from Aximsite, they've hit a home run! Mobile Shell enhances the WinMo interface with a nice screen called the "Now" screen which includes: the time & date, basic weather, battery charge, number of e-mails or voicemails and more. Also included is an efficient menu system, photo-based speed dialing and more for effective one-handed usage.

Probably the best overview to understand the product is the Aximsite review along with the demo video they put together. If you're looking for more efficiency on your Windows Mobile 5 Pocket PC Phone Edition device, you'll definitely want to see this!

Get Windows Mobile Device Center working with OneCare

Way back in October I had issues getting Windows Mobile Device Center to play nicely with OneCare; looks like the same general configuration changes apply, which is plain silly. Both apps are Microsoft apps and really should get along. I gave the basic instructions back then, but Arne Hess put together a complete walk-through of the process including step-by-step screen shots. If you plan to sync up a Windows Mobile device on Vista while running Windows Live OneCare, here's what you need to do.

Google Maps for Windows Mobile available

Wow, when it rains it pours with reader tips. Just got a note from Kayhan indicating that Google rolled out Google Maps for Windows Mobile! The official information is right here on the Official Google Blog and you can pull down the CAB file for your Win Mo device here.

You'll need Windows Mobile 2003 or higher, which knocks out my Windows CE 2.11 Compaq Aero 2130 unfortunately. According to the Google, contact integration and GPS compatibility are in there in addition to all of the previous features you know and love, so hop on over and give it a go! Hey, the even updated the list of supported devices with the uber-generic terms of "device, Pocket PC and Smartphone". Hey, looks like there's a little traffic in the San Francisco Bay area; think I'll stay on the East Coast. ;)

Skype signs deal to tweak Windows Mobile client

Skype has signed a deal with HelloSoft to use its VoIP technology to enhance the Windows Mobile version of the Skype program.  HelloSoft uses advanced data compression that results in a low-footprint client perfect for Windows Mobile devices.  Once the new technology is incorporated into the Skype program users should be able to enjoy better quality calls.  Skype for Windows Mobile requires WiFi or true 3G connectivity like EV-DO or HSDPA to provide bandwidth sufficient for good voice calls.

(via BetaNews)

Final release of Windows Mobile Device Center for Vista available

It’s been in beta for a long time but if you use a Windows Mobile device and you’ve jumped on the Vista train then you need to get the final release version of Microsoft’s Windows Mobile Device Center (WMDC).  Microsoft has two versions available, a 32 bit and a 64 bit version, for those of you who care about the latter, and you know who you are.  Is it just me but does anyone else think of weapons of mass destruction every time you see WMDC?

(via Pocket PC Thoughts)

HTC Athena reviewed

We just can’t stop talking about the HTC Athena, probably because it defies categorization.  It’s a phone, PDA, mini PC, web appliance, etc.  All of the news about T-Mobile picking it up even added to the fire of interest.  What we haven’t seen yet is a real review, but that has changed now.  Moblog has written a decent review that is chock full of photos and the more I see of the Athena the more it appeals to me.  Uh oh, gadget envy is such an ugly thing.

JGUI Vista Smartphone Interface

JGUI has been producing software for Windows Mobile devices for some time now and they sent me a notice about a new interface for Windows Mobile smartphones and Phone Edition devices that is so cool I jumped right on it.  With all the mania surrounding the launch of Windows Vista, this program is not only timely but one of the best interfaces I’ve seen yet for Smartphones.  I immediately loaded it up on my Samsung i320 Windows Mobile Smartphone and was hooked right away.

The Vista Smartphone Interface (VSI) is a beautiful interface that transforms the smartphone into a very cool tool.  The Today screen becomes an interactive, animated screen that displays the date, the time with an analog clock, signal strength and battery level.  Heck, it’s too hard to describe, you just need to see it for yourself:

VSI is free for the home screen only but to get the full joy of the program you need to purchase the full version.  You can find it on Handango for $19.99 (cheaper for club members) and on the JGUI web site.

Jason Dunn reviews Microsoft Voice Command 1.6

It's no secret that I think that voice input and speech recognition in mobile devices will some day revolutionize the way we get things done.  While speech recognition is not quite there yet it is very close and in certain limited functions can be ra eal productivity booster.  Microsoft Voice Command is such a utility that makes interaction with Windows Mobile phones easier to do.  Microsoft recently released a new version, 1.6, that has improved functionality and ease of use features.  Jason Dunn of The Two Inch View (clever name) has published a review of this new version and he seems to like it.  Check it out to see if it might be something you WM device owners should have a look at.

DST fix for Windows Mobile

Here in the U.S., as well as in a few other countries I believe, we're extending Daylight Savings Time this year by roughly four weeks over the current standard. Microsoft has some documentation on the impact to your Windows Mobile handheld and one kind soul created a CAB file to address the issue. If you'd rather not run the CAB he created, you can create your own using the info on the Microsoft page.

Ideally, your Windows Mobile handheld OEM or your phone carrier (if you have a Smartphone or Phone Edition device) should be providing a fix based off of the Microsoft code. It might make sense to wait and see if that happens, but if not, you've got this as a backup plan. I suspect that phone devices will a clock reset via the airwaves, but there could still be impacts to the Time Zone settings and appointments in your calendar.

Spb Club web site launched

Whether you use the great software from Spb Software House or not if you have a Windows Mobile device you should head over and join the newly launched Spb Club web site.  Run by the Spb folks, you'll find all sorts of discussions about Spb software, Windows Mobile devices, along with some great free downloads.  I snagged a handful of very nice ringtones for my Smartphone so check them out.

Access offers NetFront v3.4 browser preview

Access might sound familiar; they're the folks that bought the Palm OS. However, they also developed a solid web browsing client for Windows Mobile devices some years back. The NetFront browser didn't get updated often, but many folks sung its praises. Looks like the venerable app is poised for a comeback as the::unwired caught a company press release: Access is offering a new version of NetFront as a technical preview and you can try it for free right here.

You'll need a Windows Mobile 5 device and you'll have to hurry: the preview expires at the end of this month! I noticed that the browser supports the HTML, XHTML and WAP2.0 standards. Better yet: NetFront also works with "CSS (Cascading Style Sheet), ECMAScript (JavaScript), DOM (Document Object Model), or DHTML (Dynamic HTML)" which should make for very functional browsing.

Hilarious Windows Mobile commercials

I was traipsing around the Windows Mobile web site this morning and stumbled across some hilarious ads that Microsoft has posted as part of their "Work Anywhere" campaign.  The ads feature a guy using his Windows Mobile device while wearing a suit covered with bacon (think release the hounds), duct taped to a lamp post, in an elevator full of snakes, encased in orange gelatin, and in a dark beaver den.  The ads themselves are very funny but the 3 outtakes they've also posted are priceless.  Check them out if you need some humor this first morning post-holidays.

Get more organized with your Pocket PC

The start of a new year often finds many thinking along the lines of getting more organized using mobile technology to get the year started in proper fashion.  It's not an easy thing to do and requires giving a lot of thought to the tools at hand and finding a way to get the most out of them.  Microsoft MVP Jaap van Ekris of Modern Nomads has done a lot of that thinking and written a good article that addresses how to get the most out of Windows Mobile Pocket PCs.  The article concentrates on how to use the PIM applications for maximum effectiveness for getting everything under control.  The premise behind the article is that the more organized you get in your professional life the more time you have to devote to your personal life, something I agree with totally.  It's a nice article and worth a read even if you are a long-time user of a Windows Mobile Pocket PC or were lucky enough to score one from Santa this year.

Dell upgrades ROM for Axim X50, X50v

Perhaps the rumor of the Dell PDA demise is a bit overstated: the company officially released a ROM upgrade for the X50-series handheld yesterday. You can find information and downloads for the three different device ROMs (X50 - low, X50 - medium, X50v) directly at the Dell site and there are several Aximsite threads covering questions and user experiences. According to Dell, this Windows Mobile 5 ROM dubbed A02 provides:

1.OS 5.1.195(Build 14957.2.3.1)
2.Wireless roaming enhancement.
3.Improve CF memory card sometimes disappear.
4.CF modem driver improvement.
5.Microphone recording enhancement
6.ActiveSync connection improvement.

As with any ROM update, you definitely want to backup your device first and then ensure that it's plugged in to an external power source before performing the ROM flash. The easiest way to brick a handheld is to have the power die on you in mid-flash! Thanks for the tip from our unofficial-UK-man-in-the field: Phil.

SPB Diary upgraded to 2.2

Mobility Site shares the good news: SPB Diary has an upgrade to 2.2 for your Windows Mobile 2003 or 5.0 device. I try to keep my Today screen plugins to a minimum on the XV 6700, but SPB Diary is a must have for me. I think I've said this before: "it's what the Today screen should be". There, I said it again. ;)

The new features include a Messaging tab for greater access to the Inbox and new context menus. I've always like the tabbed approach because I have access to so many necessary items all on one screen, which really boosts productivity. Don't take my word for it: download the free 15-day trial. New license purchases are $19.95 while an upgrade from the 1.x version are $7.95. If you're interested in a coupon code to save 50%, Mobility Site has one good through January 5th!

Everyone's looking forward to the HTC Athena

Why wouldn't they be? Speculation aside, if the rumored specs are any indication, the HTC Athena could be one of the most powerful Windows Mobile phone devices yet. Several folks have opinions or reports on what we might see from HTC:

• SlashGear wonders what the price will be on the feature-packed device.
• the::unwired provides the updated pic above and specs; questions if this is all rumor.
• Carrypad thinks this might be the ultimate carrypad.

Among the rumored specs, the Athena will possibly have:

• 5-inch VGA touchscreen
• Windows Mobile
• GPS / GSM / GPRS / EDGE / Bluetooth / 802.11 b&g connectivity
• 3 megapixel camera
• detachable keyboard
• 8 Gigabyte drive

My initial thoughts (if the specs are correct):

• You won't be able to touch this device for under $500 to $600, i.e.: near the price of low-end UMPCs with more features and a more powerful OS.
• The detachable keyboard is nice, but not for heavy duty use; it looks too flat and small
• Once you have a VGA WM device, you'll never want a QVGA one again. VGA is a "disruptor", much like 3G connectivity.
• The 8 Gigabytes of storage are likely flash-based to save battery life
• Although there appears to be phone capabilities, holding up a 5-inch screen to your ear will likely cause most owners to use a Bluetooth headset.

You've got my thoughts. What do you think? Does a device with these rumored specs appeal to you?

Friday's question: what do you want in Crossbow?

I've recently realized (just this week) that I use my Windows Mobile device much less than I used to. I'm not suggesting that's a general trend for everyone, but as computing devices become smaller and more connected (think UMPCs and beyond), I do wonder if this is the beginning of a trend. There will probably always be place for a mega-featured phone or PDA for some, so I'm not predicting doom and gloom here. Nope, instead, I'm wondering what features we'll see (or should see) in the next version of Windows Mobile that will keep those handhelds worth holding. We already know that Crossbow is that next version and there are some new features of course. Here's my question to you:

What features aren't currently in Windows Mobile that you'd like to see in Crossbow?

Me personally: I'd like to see native Java support for more dynamic web pages. Speaking of web pages, I'd also like to see some of the great features in Opera and other mobile browsers to be part of IE Mobile. How about you?

Early Vista Tip #4: troubleshooting WMDC

Just 49 days, 14 hours, 9 minutes and a few seconds before Windows Vista hits the consumer computer; here's another early tip that will come in handy after January 30th and it's courtesy of Jason Langridge. Jason walks through two quick scenarios to help troubleshoot WMDC, Windows Mobile Device Center. Remember, good ol' ActiveSync gets a re-name and a facelift in Vista. My personal experience so far is that it's not 100% stable, but to be fair, I haven't synched my XV 6700 with Vista in several weeks, so it could now be improved.

The high level troubleshooting techniques are:

1. Install your mobile device and drivers first, then run Windows Update; that's how you'll get WMDC.
2. Switch your device connection to a Serial connection if Vista doesn't see your handheld.

Jason has all the details right here, so if you're an early masochist, er, adopter like me, you can get a head start using WMDC in Vista. OK, back to the Vista countdown....49d, 13h, 59m and 46 seconds.....45....44....

Windows Mobile to handle new Office doc formats next year

Early adopters of Microsoft Office 2007 can be sure to have document compatibility issues when sending documents to those who are still using an earlier version of Office, but Microsoft has already released viewers so they can at least work with the brand new documents.  That's not the case with Windows Mobile devices, however, so if you upgrade to the new version of Office you'd better output your documents in an earlier version or you won't be able to work with them on your Windows Mobile device.  CNET is reporting that Microsoft has stated it will be the middle of 2007 before Windows Mobile will be updated to handle the newer formats.  Oh and you Mac owners, fugeddaboutit!

A not so typical day in the life of jkOnTheRun

I do a lot of "day in the life" articles that usually focus on a particular new device and covers how that device aids me in a typical day.  This article is not like that so bear with me for a little while.  Yesterday was not a typical day for me but mobile technology played a distinct role so I thought I should chronicle it.  The day started out as any other, I rose early and processed my email on the Fujitsu P1610 like I do every morning.  I then checked my RSS feeds for any newsworthy items to pass along on jkOnTheRun and tagged items of interest in Onfolio so I could return to later.

LG: WinMo 5 and Tablet PC with WiMAX, possibly a UMPC in '08

Looks like all of the good mobile news is coming out of the International Telecommunication Union Telecomm World 2006 conference in Hong Kong; I knew I should have renewed that passport! LG is the mobile king at the moment: their KC1 handheld will run on Windows Mobile 5 and will support mobile WiMAX for downloads up to 10.2 Mbps, which is five times faster than my home DSL speed over the wire. When WiMAX isn't available, the KC1 will drop down to 1X-EV-DO. No word on price or other specs just yet, but LG hopes to have the KC1 out in the first half of 2007.

In related news, LG is enabling the XNote C1 Tablet with similar WiMAX capabilities and the company is considering a UMPC entry with WiMAX as well. We'll be hittin' the LG folks up next month in Vegas; you can bet we'll ask about that whole UMPC idea.

eWallet 5.0 in open beta

If you're looking to safely store credit card info, passwords and other sensitive data, Ilium Software's eWallet application is among the best. Looks like the best just keeps getting better as we got inside word direct from Ilium that eWallet 5.0 is coming soon and the public beta just started! If you want to participate, just hit up the beta link here and download the app for your handheld. This version supports Windows Mobile Pocket PC 2003 and up, including the Smartphone edition, as well as Palm devices running Palm OS 4.0 or higher. You'll get to use the new app for 30 days at no cost and hopefully, you'll find time to provide feedback to Ilium's developers.

There's a host PC component as well in eWallet, so you can easily add or edit data on the host and have it synch to your handheld. This time around Ilium wisely realized that some folks have companion devices like UMPCs and other Tablets, so you can actually synchronize your data across a network or via FTP!

Here's a list direct form Ilium on the new features:

- Synchronize with as many wallets with as many PCs and devices as you want.
- Synchronize with servers and other PCs on a network.
- Synchronize to other folders on the same PC for automated backups.
- Synchronize to removable storage devices (USB, removable harddrives, etc.)
- Synchronize with remote locations via FTP.
- Built-in online backup/viewing capability through FilesAnywhere sync.
- Brand new sync setup interface.
- Full support for Vista and Mobile Device Center.
- All new icon set.
- Four self-installing icon packs (not posted yet!)
- eWallet Companion step-by-step help tool.
- Graphics, icons, and sounds stored in My Documents now making it easier to customize.
- "No Password Needed" wallet option.

Complete and awesome Windows Mobile Crossbow review

When I first started reading about the next version of Windows Mobile, aka Crossbow, I have to admit I was saying to myself “where’s the beef?”.  That began to change quickly as I recently had the opportunity to see Crossbow (WM 6) for myself and got a tour of the “under the hood” changes that the Microsoft team has incorporated in this next version..  I’m really excited about Crossbow now that Mobile-review has published a thorough, in-depth review of Crossbow that details all the changes that are in the new OS. There are too many improvements that float my boat but no doubt my favorite is the ability to read emails in HTML format.  Yahoo!  No more cool email that I cannot view on my PPC.  I also love the fact that you can use handwriting in notes or even the audio recorder from within the Notes application.  Now you can take notes in ink while on a phone call and it will be attached to the event in the Call History!  Yowza!  Check out the complete review to see for yourself why I am getting pumped about Crossbow.

Voice Command 1.6 for WM 5 available

I noticed a report yesterday over at Brighthand indicating that Microsoft Voice Command might be getting an upgrade from v1.5 and sure enough with a little digging, it looks like the rumor is fact. Microsoft's Voice Command page doesn't speak about the upgrade, but does link to Handango, where you can purchase the application. Sure enough: Handango's product page has a link for Voice Command 1.6 as of yesterday.

Two new features look exceptional in this release of the $40 Windows Mobile application:

• Bluetooth hands-free control
• Spoken e-mail notifications: the sender and subject are announced

You'll need your ActiveSync client running at version 4.0 or better and according to the product page, the following smartphones are supported: BenQ P51, Cingular 8125 (5.0), Asus MyPal A636 (5.0), Asus MyPal A639 (5.0), Audiovox PPC 6700 (5.0), Dell Axim X51 (5.0), Acer n311 (5.0), Cingular 8525

If you've got time for a 60-second video demonstration of Microsoft Voice Command (1.5), we put one together back in March of this year. As a Windows Mobile smartphone owner, I've personally found this application is one of the biggest productivity boosters on my device.

USGS Topo maps for your handheld

This gives new meaning to the phrase "he's got the whole world in his hands"....Prosurv now offers regional topographic maps on 4 GB SD memory cards for your Windows Mobile device running WM 2003, 2003 SE or WM 5. Also included is PocketQuads software, which integrates the topo maps with a GPS receiver if you're pairing one to your handheld. For the outdoorsy type, this might be a nice step up from current GPS software and information, but it will cost you. Each set of regional maps is $299 direct and provides both 1:100,000 and 1:250,000 scale maps. If you want greater detail in your particular state, you can nab an edition that includes a 1:24,000 scale as well, but there's no break in the price. I think I'll stick with the paper maps that never fold up quite right for now.

Use a Pocket PC to control a PC with PPC Tablet

Looking for a another way to control or provide input to your desktop, laptop, Tablet or UMPC? If you have a Pocket PC with PPC 2002 or better, you can use it with PPC Tablet. This interesting application installs on your PDA and acts as a human interface type of device. The latest version is available for $16 direct and there's a 15-day trial version available as well. Here's a list of supported plug-ins for controlling specific desktop apps:

Default Devices: This plug-in contains a touchpad, a tablet and a numeric keypad.

Display Feedback (NEW!): This plug-in contains a Display Feedback area and a touchpad. You can view the host computer screen directly on your Pocket PC, and send mouse movements and key strokes to it.The "hot" area (the area that is currently being viewed) will be surrounded by a blinking read rectangle.

Remote File System (NEW!): A plug-in that contains a remote file system browser. You can browse through the folders and files on the host computer, download the selected file to your Pocket PC, or execute it directly on the host computer.

iTunes: A plug-in designed for controlling iTunes.

Winamp: A plug-in designed for controlling Winamp.

Windows Media Player: A plug-in designed for controlling Windows Media Player.

Media Center PC: A plug-in designed for controlling Media Center PC. (This plug-in is an extra download)

PowerPoint Presentation: A plug-in designed for controlling PowerPoint.

Internet Explorer: A plug-in designed for navigating Internet Explorer web browser.

Firefox: A plug-in designed for navigating Firefox web browser.

WinTV: This plug-in provides a remote-control pad for WinTV and other programs.

Personal Data: This plug-in allows you to save personal data (like name, e-mail, phone, address) in the profile and replay it in other applications.

OneNote: A convenient plug-in to control Microsoft OneNote. (This plug-in is an extra download)

Document Viewer: This plug-in is designed for viewing documents.

Overall, this looks like a slick way to turn a Pocket PC or Smartphone device into a mini-remote for your computer. If you're interested in the app, Pocket PC Thoughts is giving five copies away in a contest that ends on November 20th, so hit them up for the easy entry requirements.

Pocket PC- put your Today Screen on a diet

One of the coolest features of the Windows Mobile Pocket PC is the Today Screen, along with all the fun and productive plug-ins that you can get from third party developers.  Oh sure, the plug-ins that Microsoft provides with the Windows Mobile OS are functional but rather bland to look at compared to some of the third-part offerings.  It’s a lot of fun to spice up the Today screen, there are weather plug-ins, PIM plug-ins, music player plug-ins, and just about anything else you can think of to put there.  I like to have information available on the Today Screen on my XV6700 so right after I bought it I loaded it up with a weather plug-in, a full-blown PIM plug-in, a program launcher, and a music player.  My screen was really the bomb and had all this useful information showing all the time.

Over time I began to feel that my Pocket PC was slowing down, from the time it took to reset to the time it took to react to an action on my part.  It was running sluggishly and as I thought back on it I couldn’t put my finger on exactly when I noticed it, even subconsciously.  It’s like it slowed down gradually over time so today I really looked at it and decided to do something about it.  I disabled all the fancy plug-ins and turned on the default Windows Mobile ones, Calendar, Tasks, and Messaging.  Wow, what a difference!  The XV6700 simply flies now and everything happens instantaneously, just like when it was turned on for the first time.  And the time it takes to do a soft reset on the device has dropped from over a minute and a half to 40 seconds!  It feels like someone gave me a new Pocket PC to play with, and that’s a good thing.  It's so fast I have uninstalled ALL my old plug-ins.

So I would challenge anybody who owns a Windows Mobile Pocket PC to do the same thing I did and run your device for a few days using just the WM plug-ins.  You’ll be amazed how slow your device has become and you didn’t even realize it.  It’s nice having all that information displayed with your fance plug-ins but try going cold turkey like I have and see if it’s worth the price you pay.

LivePVR: record calls and more on your handheld

Most handhelds come with some type of voice recording feature. What if you've got a Pocket PC Phone Edition, WM Smartphone or Series 60 device and have a burning desire to record your conversations? LivePVR from SoftTrends appears to be a solution for you. Remember, that there are typically state or other local privacy laws surrounding the recording of phone conversation, so do your due diligence first; we wouldn't want to get a late night "bail me out of jail" phone call from any jkOTR readers.

LivePVR also supports regular voice recording for meetings and the like; I like the "Timed Recording" feature that adds a configurable recording buffer before and after a recording session to make you don't miss anything. MobileGadgetNews has a full review of the $9.95 program and gave it 4 out of 5 stars. I was tempted to call them for more impressions, but figuring they still have the software, I thought better of it. ;)

Writing on Windows Mobile

Hamish MacDonald is a writer who does all of his writing on a Windows Mobile device and he has published an article describing his gear as a guest geek on GirlsGoneMobile.  Actually, Hamish starts on paper and then migrates his projects over to the Pocket PC where he outlines and does the actual writing using an external keyboard.  It's interesting to see how a professional uses his mobile tools to produce the written piece.  Hamish, if you were using a UMPC you could even do your mind-mapping with MindManager for building those masterpieces.

Freeware of the Moment- Mobile Secretary

Our Freeware of the Moment is a nifty little application for Windows Mobile based devices, written by a member of the Windows Mobile Team.  Mobile Secretary provides some nice functionality that is missing from the Windows Mobile OS and extends the functionality of those devices.  You can configure Mobile Secretary to automatically respond to a missed call (say you’re in a meeting) with a text message.  This is much more informative for the caller who otherwise would just get your voice mail and thus wouldn’t know why you couldn’t pick up.  It might slow down those persistent callers who just won’t take no answer for an answer and keep calling and calling.  Mobile Secretary lets you define groups so missed calls can be handled differently depending on who the caller is.  There is a lot of other things you can do with Mobile Secretary and it’s free so check it out.  It does require Windows Mobile 5.x along with the .NET Framework 2.x.

JK gadget bag updated

Whenever the contents of my daily gadget bag changes I try to remember to post it here on jkOnTheRun and a recent post on fellow Houstonian Kent Newsome's blog reminded me it was time to update my daily kit.  Here is what I now carry with me daily in my Boa Booq XS backpack:

Samsung Q1 SSD- my daily workhorse.  I am taking notes all day on the Q1 with OneNote 2007 and when I am at a desk I use the Q1 as a mini-laptop.

Samsung organizer and USB keyboard- protects the Q1 in the backpack and turns it into a full laptop in 5 seconds

Verizon XV6700 phone- Windows Mobile 5 and EVDO, a good combination.  I tether the XV6700 off and on throughout the day when I need connectivity.  Of course I use a WiFi hotspot if one is available.  I am able to keep up with email whenever I have time free to process it.

Boxwave miniSync cable- I use this to tether the XV6700 to the Q1.  The retractable cable contracts to such a small size it fits in the tiny MP3 player pocket in the Booq bag.  The beauty of having the phone tethered to the Q1 is that the phone is charging the whole time it is attached.  I also have a charge only retractable cable that I use if I just need to charge the phone and don't want to take extra time for ActiveSync to fire up.

IOGear mini Bluetooth mouse- I use it when in laptop mode in the organizer.  A fully charged mouse will last days before needing recharging.

BatteryGeek Portable Power Station- I leave the PPS in a pocket on the Booq bag and connect it while in laptop mode so the Q1 is always fully charged when I head into meetings.  When a meeting lasts a couple of hours and I have to head across town to the next meeting I connect the Q1 to the PPS right in the Booq bag with the charge cable running from the Q1 pocket to the PPS pocket.  This way the Q1 charges the entire time I am travelling to the meeting and it usually picks up a sufficient charge to get me through the upcoming meeting.  If the Q1 battery level ever drops too low for comfort during a meeting I simply plug in the PPS cable for charging without having to remove the battery from the bag.  No one is ever the wiser in the meeting.  This is probably the slickest setup I have ever used.  The PPS will run the Q1 for at least 18 hours and leave me with a fully charged internal battery.

Ultimate Ears Super.fi Pro 5 headphones- simply the best headphones I have ever used.  When I have free time between meetings, especially in a noisy Starbucks or the equivalent, I plug into some nice music (or podcast) and the headphones totally block out the noisy environment.

TomTom One portable GPS- simply the easiest GPS navigation system I have ever seen.  I use it every day, it is always on while in my car.  Even if I don't have a route programmed I like to see which cross streets are coming up and it's a good compass.  I usually do program a route, however, because I can't tell you how many times I have run into a major traffic problem and pulled off the freeway to bypass it.  The TomTom One instantly calculates a new route and gets me to my destination as quickly as possible.  For security reasons I sometimes throw the TomTom in the Booq bag, it's so small it takes almost no room.

That's it, as my gadgets have gotten more capable the number of them I have to take every day has dropped dramatically.  What's in your gadget bag?

Franklin's CDU-550 USB EV-DO modem supports Windows Mobile?

The CDU-550 USB EV-DO modem from Franklin Wireless garnered some attention soon after its release. A wireless broadband modem is a fantastic accessory for a notebook or UMPC that isn't equipped with a PC card slot, so the CDU-550 fits a growing need. I noticed a press release that was posted on EVDO Forums the other day and this caught my eye:

"Franklin Wireless (PINKSHEETS: FKLT), the San Diego-based developer and marketer of wireless broadband communication devices and applications, today announced its CDU-550 Mobile Broadband USB modem can now support both Windows Mobile, the most prevalent OS running on most PDAs and Ultra-Mobile PCs, and Linux operating systems."

Now there aren't many Windows Mobile devices that have USB host capabilities, so I'm thinking this is a typo. Additionally, I don't see the PR on Franklin Wireless's site although I just noticed that this product is supported on Linux and Mac. Still, I have to wonder: how many folks have Pocket PCs and would like to add 3G wireless modem capabilities? Is everyone satisfied with WiFi on their non-phone devices or is there a market for adding high-speed connectivity to your existing Windows Mobile device?

UPDATE: According to Windows for Devices, this might not be a typo after all: "According to Nick Lim, senior VP of technology and business development at Franklin Wireless, the company is currently testing the CDU-550 with a wide range of Windows Mobile handhelds, and will eventually publish a list of supported devices. In order to be able to use the CDU-550, the mobile device must have a "USB Host" interface, similar to that provided by virtually all modern PCs and laptops. "  Looks like I'll be digging out my old Toshiba e805, which does have USB Host support!

Spectec offers WiFi in a micro-SD format

Got a Windows Mobile device that sports a micro-SD slot, but doesn't include integrated WiFi? Some WinMobile phones fit that category and thanks to Spectec, you can add 802.11 b/g connectivity via their SDW 823 card. No idea on the price and you'll need SDIO support on your handheld, but who ever thought we'd see WiFi in a card this small?

(via Pocket PC Thoughts)

Windows Mobile Device center not playing nice with Windows Live OneCare 1.5?

I realize we're mixing two beta products here, which generally provides the same result as using one alpha application, but what can I say: I'm a risk taker! I mentioned earlier today that the latest version of PDANet now supports Vista for using a phone as a modem, but Bluetooth was the best I could do. For some reason Windows Mobile Device Center (WMDC) just never saw my XV6700 on the Q1, so I couldn't take advantage of PDANet's faster USB connection. Or so I thought...

Need a mobile search engine? Just Ask.com

Jeeves the butler is long gone, but perhaps Ask.com should get "Mini Me" from Austin Powers as the next face of Ask. The search portal now has a mobile-friendly search interface that you can find at http://m.ask.com. Ask's portal gives you several categories to search within, including Directions, Images, Business Listings, Maps, Area Codes, Weather, Bloglines and of course, a generic web search.

Two nice features jump out at me. First, Ask is using Skweezer for mobile content presentation, which is great. Second, the category or menu system can be quickly used with keypad devices. Let's say you want to search for a map, which is number 5 in the high-level menu: you simply press "5" on your keypad to use that category. Looks pretty quick and usable on a web-enabled phone.

Mobile Device Center beta now available for Vista testers

Windows Mobile device owners have been vocally taking Microsoft to task for removing the Mobile Device Center (MDC) from the most recent versions of the Windows Vista beta and rightly so.  The MDC is the utility that provides synchronization between Windows Vista PCs and Windows Mobile devices and its removal left those device owners unable to keep them up to date with the PC.  That’s all a thing of the past as Microsoft has released the Mobile Device Center Beta 3 for Vista testers.  It’s beta software so the usual caveats apply but it has to be better than nothing, right?  Be sure you grab the correct version for your PC as there is one for x86 devices and another for AMD64.  Note you must be running Windows Vista RC1 or later to use this MDC beta.

(via Pocket PC Thoughts)

Smartphone & Pocket PC mag announces Best Software finalists

The extensive list of Smartphone and Pocket PC Magazine's "Best Software" is now appearing with the finalists in the competition. There is a ton of good software on the list but if you want to see what's among "the best of the best", sneak a peek at the finalists and watch for the winners on October 16th. This list is very extensive and is broken down by category, so if you're looking for some great productivity, GPS, game software or more for your Smartphone or Pocket PC, this is a great place to start! Do you see your favorite as a finalist?

Mobius Report- new Windows Mobile PowerToys slated

Windows Mobile enthusiasts are all too aware how long it has been since Microsoft has released any free PowerToys for the platform and I’m happy to report from Mobius that they will be bringing out a few new ones in the future.  The first PowerToy we were shown was a Photo Dialer so you can put contact photos on the Today screen and dial by tapping the photo.  It’s obvious they noticed Palm’s similar dialer and good to see it coming from Microsoft.  The second Toy is a full-blown photo browsing application that even has advanced features like cropping.  Both PowerToys will be available for the Smartphone but a release date was not given.

Using Orb to sling video to your Windows Mobile device

Kevin and I have talked about Orb for a long time but recently it seems all the talk has shifted to using SlingPlayer with a Slingbox to place-shift video to mobile devices.  That method works well but Orb is still a great way to play your media at home on your mobile device no matter where you are.  Orb is also free which is always good in the jkOTR book. 

Jason Dunn of The Two Inch View has written a great tutorial that details exactly what you need to do to get that media playing on your Windows Mobile device using the Orb network.  He reminds us that Orb will handle both music and photos in addition to the video place-shifting that most people think of when they think of Orb.  He’s got a lot of nice screen shots to show all the features of Orb on the Windows Mobile platform so check it out. Orb is just so cool.

It's not an Origami but the S-XGen sure makes me think it should be

Information about an innovative new device has been leaking out a few drabs at a time and the latest is that the S-XGen is a Windows Mobile device with a lot of connectivity options.  What is getting people’s attention though is that keyboard that unfolds from the PDA-like device.  It’s that bendy, foldy nature that screams Origami to me.  The S-XGen is to be produced by Seamless WiFi whose very name would imply all sorts of good WiFi capability.  It is rumored to also have Bluetooth, GSM, Ethernet and IrDA.  The screen is a tad small at 4.25” that engadget states is running an odd resolution, 470 x 270.  The company will be displaying the S-XGen at the CES in January so we should start seeing some solid information at that time.  It sure does look cool, doesn’t it?

Windows CE 6.0 now in the hands of OEMs

Microsoft’s Mike Hall has blogged the news that the next version of Windows CE, 6.0, has been delivered to the hands of OEMs to begin building devices with the new OS.  There will no doubt be a lag before we start seeing these new devices but this is great news for the Windows CE platform.  Mike provides the following details about this new release:

1. Operating System architecture.
   1. CE 6.0 now supports up to 32k processes with 2GB virtual memory per process (CE 5.0 supported a maximum of 32 processes with 32MB Virtual Memory per process)
   2. Operating system processes moved to kernel space (GWES, Device driver manager, file system manager are all in kernel space - improves performance)
   3. New Kernel mode and user mode driver model (CE 5.0 only supported user mode drivers) - kernel mode drivers for performance, user mode drivers for stability - plus you can now have multiple instances of the user mode driver manager (hey, you have unto 32k processes!)
   4. Strict partitioning of user mode and kernel mode (no SetKMode!)
2. Tools.
   1. The CE 6.0 development tools are integrated with Visual Studio 2005 - this gives you one tool to configure, build, download, debug, and test the operating system and the same tool to write your native (Win32, MFC, ATL, WTL, STL) or managed (C#/VB) applications.
3. Technologies
   1. This item intentionally left blank (ok, so it's not blank, but you get the idea) - more information on supported operating system technologies will be made available at launch.

ActiveSync 4.5 Beta 2 available

Thanks to Ron's comment on James's Bluetooth ActiveSych woes, we see that Microsoft has released a beta version of ActiveSync 4.5. I doubt James will use to try and resolve his issues, simply because using a beta of an already semi-unstable application isn't something most people would do on their production systems. Then again I could be wrong.

Needless to say: for the bravest of the brave among, back up your important handheld data, download the beta and have at it! Since my ActiveSync is working at the moment, I think I'll leave well enough alone. Here's the skinny on the new version thanks to BetaNews:

• Changes in ActiveSync 4.5 Beta 2 help resolve issues related to setup, partnerships, and connectivity with the PC and Microsoft Exchange
• In addition, it includes a troubleshooter utility that scans your computer and device to identify problems and offers information and corrective actions to solve them

I'm very curious to see more details on the troubleshooter; current ActiveSync error messages tend to be quite cryptic.

Bluetooth ActiveSync revisited- again and again and again

I have spent the past hour trying in vain to get Bluetooth ActiveSync (4.2) working between the XV6700 and Flash (Samsung Q1 SSD).  This was another hour I did not have to spare that I was forced to waste trying to get the connection working.  What makes me so angry about this is that it was working fine last night.  I have used both Bluetooth and USB connections with ActiveSync between these two devices frequently with no problems but this morning, kaput.  I go to connect via Bluetooth and nothing, nada, bupkis.  It just decided it wouldn’t connect anymore overnight while both units were off and sitting happily charging in their respective places.  Let’s recap– Bluetooth ActiveSync worked find for days since getting the Q1.  I have used it repeatedly every day for that time.  Today it won’t work.  Nothing I have tried yet has worked to restore the connection.  Both devices can see each other over Bluetooth.  The XV6700 will not indicate to Flash that the ActiveSync service is available.  Until the XV6700 tells Flash that ActiveSync is one of the allowed Bluetooth services the connection cannot be made.  I have reset both devices to no avail.  Unfortunately I do not have any additional time to spend on the problem so today I will go off into the big bad corporate world unable to quickly connect via Bluetooth.  Not a big deal you say?  It is to me because that means I can’t use the XV6700 as a modem via PDANet unless I stop what I am doing and connect the USB cable, wait for ActiveSync to connect up, and then get a web connection.  I hate ActiveSync.

Update on the JK XV6700 upgrade

It has been a few days now that I’ve had to play, I mean work with the XV6700 and felt it worth an update to let you know how it’s coming.  First of all I am finding the XV6700 to be a great phone!  This is very good news for me personally since that’s the reason I had to dump the Treo.  Call quality is excellent and I’ve even had a couple of people comment how clear my phone sounds and ask if I’m on a mobile phone.  That is exceptional.  I picked up a Motorola H500 Bluetooth headset when I got the XV6700 and have been using it extensively for both making and receiving phone calls and it is working very well.  No one can even tell I am on a headset as the noise cancelling capability of the H500 is apparently working flawlessly.  The XV6700 Comm Manager applet makes handling all of the radios a snap and setting up the Bluetooth was a couple of taps on the screen and I haven’t had to repair the two devices again.  I would occasionally have to repair my older headset with the Treo but this seems to work better.

I must address the daily usage scenario of the XV6700 because it has made a difference in my work and my productivity.  The two areas that are providing the biggest impact are the larger screen and the keyboard.  I am texting and emailing all the time from the XV6700 because it is so easy to do.  The rotation from portrait to landscape mode is instantaneous when I slide the keyboard out and it is a very effective tool for email.  Remember I use a hosted Exchange Server so my email and PIM data stay continuously updated due to the EVDO connection which is always on.  This had made a big difference for me because I find a lot of time I can view the email and reply to it from the XV6700 where before I would pull out the Tablet PC to do it.  Nice and easy, that’s the ticket.

The low memory condition of the Treo prevented me from loading many programs and utilities on it because I just couldn’t run them.  That’s definitely not a problem with the XV6700 so this weekend I loaded it for bear.    Here’s what I have loaded so far and why:

Spb Diary 2.0– I had this on the Treo but the longer screen of the XV6700 has allowed me to tweak the display settings so I can accomplish a lot of things during the day straight from the Today Screen.

Spb Weather– I run around town all day every day so keeping an eye on Houston’s weather is important.  Spb Weather has tight integration with Spb Diary so it’s good match.  Neither program are resource hungry and I find they are very snappy in performance.