Nov/Dec 2005

This is the T-Mobile MDA Pro - a remarkable multi-function device running the Windows Mobile operating system. It isn't entirely new, but is the latest incarnation of this hinge-topped swivel phone/PDA.

The unit has a full QWERTY keyboard which, though small, is more practical for "proper" typing than those of the really small phone-based organisers. It has GPRS data connectivity and Bluetooth and Wi-Fi wireless networking built in, and it has 48MB of non-volatile memory. It supports "push" email.

There's a 1.3-megapixel camera incorporated, complete with video capture capability, and there's a slot for MMC and SD memory cards. Oh, and it's a tri-band 3G telephone, which can also double as a wireless modem if you want to connect it to your laptop (you can use either Bluetooth or a USB cable).

Why isn't everyone buying it? Well, it weighs 210g, and is quite big to use as a phone, even when folded shut. But as a combined micro-computer and phone, it's remarkably appealing. And depending on your price plan, you can get it from about £150 upwards.