Windows Phone Thoughts: Fujitsu-Siemens Officially Launches the Pocket LOOX N Series

"Fujitsu Siemens Computers, the leading European IT manufacturer and market leader in Germany, presents the first handheld with integrated antenna and GPS functionality. Navigation has increasingly become one of the most important functions of handhelds, in both commercial and consumer use. Whether it be a shipping agency or customer service organization to plan their routes, or for private users, the navigation function has proven to be 60 percent of handheld purchases. In addition, connectivity to email and data are important in handhelds so the Pocket LOOX N520 is equipped with Wi-Fi certified wireless LAN, making it suitable for use in professional and private use. In developing the new handhelds, Fujitsu Siemens Computers focused on both elegance in design and user-friendliness. The new Pocket LOOX models are among the first on the market that do not need an additional antenna for GPS functionality. This not only enhances their esthetic appeal, but also makes them more robust than comparable devices on the market. Other attractive features include an illuminated keyboard, which makes them easy to use even in the dark, and a base station with headphones for more convenient use."



Fujitsu-Siemens has officially launched the Pocket LOOX N series by introducing two new models into the market - the N500 and the N520. These Windows Mobile 5.0-based devices feature an Intel PXA270 312MHz processor, 3.5" QVGA (240 x 320) screens, an SDIO/MMC slot, infrared connectivity, and integrated GPS (based on the SiRFstar III; NAVIGON MobileNavigator|5 ships as an optional extra). The N500 includes 64MB RAM and 64MB ROM, while the N520 includes 64MB RAM, 128MB ROM, and integrated 802.11g Wi-Fi. A complete specifications data sheet (PDF) can be found here.

Both the N500 and N520 are available from trade outlets starting at €335 and €361 respectively (plus VAT). Sadly, there's no hint of an American or Asian-Pacific launch.