Thursday, November 27, 2003
PhatWare Upgrades Calligrapher
Posted by Brad Adrian in "SOFTWARE" @ 12:00 AM
Whenever I get a new Pocket PC or rebuild one after a hard reset, one of the very first applications I install is PhatWare's Calligrapher handwriting recognition program. We've debated ad nauseum about which of the various input methods is best, but for me handwriting recognition can't be beat. With a recent upgrade to v7.0, Calligrapher may become just as indispensible to you.
Along with its time-tested recognition capabilities, v7.0 includes:
• New Configuration Manager for multiple user configurations.
• Customizable, 24-button Soft Keyboard.
• New Customizable Toolbar.
• Improved Correction Window.
• Full On-Screen Keyboard.
• European language support.
• 40-Color Ink Palette.
• Improved Ink Speed and Recognition Quality.
With all of the additional customization that v7.0 offers, this looks really appealing. You can download a free demo or buy the full version for $29.95 from Handango.
One thing bothers me, though. PhatWare has historically given free upgrades to registered users of Calligrapher, but now only users who purchased v6.x AFTER September 1, 2003 are eligible. Everybody else must pay a $19.99 upgrade fee. I'm not saying that the enhancements aren't valuable, but for me the upgrade doesn't warrant an additional $19.99 fee. I MIGHT be willing to chip in a few bucks for this kind of maintenance upgrade, but the requested fee leaves a bad taste in my mouth.
In any event, give the upgrade a try, and let me know what you think...And whether you feel it's worth an extra 20 bucks.
Along with its time-tested recognition capabilities, v7.0 includes:
• New Configuration Manager for multiple user configurations.
• Customizable, 24-button Soft Keyboard.
• New Customizable Toolbar.
• Improved Correction Window.
• Full On-Screen Keyboard.
• European language support.
• 40-Color Ink Palette.
• Improved Ink Speed and Recognition Quality.
With all of the additional customization that v7.0 offers, this looks really appealing. You can download a free demo or buy the full version for $29.95 from Handango.
One thing bothers me, though. PhatWare has historically given free upgrades to registered users of Calligrapher, but now only users who purchased v6.x AFTER September 1, 2003 are eligible. Everybody else must pay a $19.99 upgrade fee. I'm not saying that the enhancements aren't valuable, but for me the upgrade doesn't warrant an additional $19.99 fee. I MIGHT be willing to chip in a few bucks for this kind of maintenance upgrade, but the requested fee leaves a bad taste in my mouth.
In any event, give the upgrade a try, and let me know what you think...And whether you feel it's worth an extra 20 bucks.
