Registered: Mar 2000
Location: Davis, CA, USA
Posts: 72

Should HandSpring reduce prices?

During an April 12th conference call, Donna Dubinsky stated that "There will also be no immediate price reductions on the Visor family to match Palm's recent changes."

I realize there's a $50 rebate on the Visor Deluxe.

Do you think HandSpring is pursuing a sound price strategy? Personally, I think PDA prices should come down. Desktop and notebook PC prices have dropped dramatically.

Last edited by wshwe on 04-24-2001 at 07:10 PM

Registered: Nov 2000
Location:
Posts: 69

THE PALM UNITS THAT HAVE BEEN REDUCED ARE THAT WAY BECAUSE THEY ARE OBSOLETE. IF HANDSPRING CHOOSES TO LOWER ITS PRICES THE BEST TIME IS WHEN THE PALM 500M AND 505M ARE IN THE FRONT OF THE HANDHELD COMMUNITY. DIVERSION IS THE BEST FORM OF ACTION.

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Registered: Oct 2000
Location: Aberdeen, SD
Posts: 2531

I think it's fairly sound. It's sending the message that the technology is still worth what it was before Palm's price cuts. Gives the impression that they're priced as low as they can. That said I still think the platinum should've replaced the deluxe (and the solo remained the same excepting the processor and OS ver.), and I know the prism's price can come down plenty. I fail to see how one step up the chromatic ladder (I've rarely seen an option between 256 and 16-bit on a computer) results in a $120 price hike. Granted, it makes a big difference with the low resolution of the OS, but that's one hell of a premium to demand for that difference.

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-Joshua
Abortion: Darwinism at its finest.

Registered: Apr 2001
Location: Prison
Posts: 421

I was just about to say the same. Lets compare the VDX to the now-defunct IIIxe, shall we?


VDX advantages:
Springboard Expansion Slot
Slightly faster processor

IIIxe advantages:
16 color grayscale screen (as opposed to the measly 4 on the VDX)
Flash Memory (a necessity)
Upgradeable OS
Serial Add ons that are on average, cheaper, better quality, but larger than the springboard add ons. (Palmpix vs. Eyemodule)
Moble internet via Cell phone option.
That cool flip cover that is inexpensive, yet is light years better than the clip-on cover in the Visor.
The IIIxe is smaller!


The IIIxe also costs $100.00 less than the VDX as of now. Granted it's discontinued, but the IIIc and similar VII series still exist for now. I think Handspring really DOES need to start cutting prices, especially near the top of the line.

I still want a VDX though!

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<b><font size=1 color=teal>"Sorry about the whole thing about losing your life savings, but that Palmpilot is property of Enron, so please give it back"

Registered: Apr 2001
Location: daly city, ca
Posts: 12

hey bblue why do u still want a vdx? i ordered one at staples.com yesterday (still havent shipped!!! cause of some processing crap) i'm awaiting my first pda. i just want to know why do u want it

Registered: Mar 2001
Location: Champaign, IL
Posts: 200

bblue, you left out some stuff:

The Vdx includes a USB cradle which is faster than IIIxe's serial, and more friendly for Mac users... however Win95 and NT users would need to get a serial cradle for extra $$.

The Vdx also has some slightly modified apps like DateBook+ and a CityTime world clock app.

There are many more SB modules available than Palm serial addons--MP3 players, VisorPhone, extra memory, CF adapters...

Using the SB slot also frees up the bottom connector for a keyboard, so you can type while listening to your MP3s. But you can't both type while websurfing on a Palm which has just one connector.

It's very possible to connect a Vdx up to a cell phone too, either via Palm's MIK, a single cable, or IR ports.

The Vdx uses the same processor as the IIIxe, but from what I understand it's a little faster due to some OS optimizations.

The Vdx has a nicer stock stylus (the one with reset pin and screwdriver now) than the plastic IIIxe stick.

The Vdx also has a little leather slipcase in addition to the plastic cover. I actually like the plastic cover; the IIIxe flip cover sometimes blocks light, or makes it difficult to see what's going on with a hotsync.

On the other hand the IIIxe does have the 16-gray support, and the backlight is better IMHO. I like their packaging, what with giving you an actual printed manual (not that useful), a more comprehensive Graffiti card (more useful), and a catalog of accessories/software (nice for beginners to see what's available).

I'm sure there's more pros and cons for both sides.

Registered: Nov 1999
Location: Enumclaw, Wa
Posts: 268

Just keep the ipaq, dont want to make your boss mad.

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Registered: Oct 2000
Location: Aberdeen, SD
Posts: 2531

quote:

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Originally posted by D ev R ay 4Real
Just keep the ipaq, dont want to make your boss mad.

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-Joshua
Abortion: Darwinism at its finest.

Registered: Apr 2001
Location: Prison
Posts: 421

Just to update

Yes, I do want a VDX. I know it sounds awkward. I want it for several reasons, most of which surround development for Springboard add-ons.

I'm still open minded about it, I do love my IIIxe, but that may change.


ok, as to the comparison:

About the things I left out:

1) I use a Mac (did my name give it away?) and I don't use a cradle. The OS 3.5 allows for advanced IR syncing, which is usually quite fast. I sync VIA infrared. However, you may need the USB if you use a non-IR mac.

2) As far as I know, the only thing Missing from the IIIxe, is the Visorphone. There are Mp3 players (pocketpyro) CF adaptors, and yes, even extra memory.

3) The one disadvantage, is they DO take up the same port. But most of the time, you won't be using the keyboard at the same time. If you need to play Mp3's and use the keyboard at the same time, you can:

A: Disconnect the Mp3 player, and use it as a stand-alone (pocketpyro does this.)
B: Buy a Rio 500 and tape it to the back (I joke about this often)


4) Did you know that the Flip Cover:

A: Snaps off
B: Flips back further to NOT block out sunlight
C: Can be replaced by Translucent covers. (cost: $3.00 for a pack of 3)

5) I downloaded a replacement datebook, a replacement scientific calculator for free, all with more features than the original Palm datebook.

6) I also forgot, the VDX comes in 5 pretty colors. I DO wish the IIIxe had that, but for $7.00 you can buy a faceplate in any color you wish. (Note: I haven't gotten it mixed up with the M105, there ARE 3rd party snap-on faceplates for the IIIxe!)

This being said, I still think the VDX is VERY NICE. But I am pointing out that most of it's advantages don't justify the $100.00 price increase at all. That's why I am looking for one under $150.00 used. I would like to see Handspring downshift their product line. (Have the Platinum replace the VDX, VDX replace the Visor Basic, the Edge replace the Platinum, the Prism replace the Edge, drop in price or discontinue the Visor Basic.) <-- Price wise, that is.


Sorry for over-griping about Handspring. I don't hate the VDX (I'm trying desperatly to get one!) I just think the price is steep for what you're getting.

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<b><font size=1 color=teal>"Sorry about the whole thing about losing your life savings, but that Palmpilot is property of Enron, so please give it back"

Registered: Mar 2001
Location: Champaign, IL
Posts: 200

Re: Just to update

quote:

---

Originally posted by bblue
1) I use a Mac (did my name give it away?)

---

Ha bblue could've been Big Blue too. A couple of quick remarks:

* IR syncing at 115Kbps seems slow if you're loading apps, docs, files into your extra memory, etc. Normal hotsyncing is probably fine though.

* Is the PocketPyro actually available? The pocketpyro.com website doesn't seem to have been updated in a year, with no indication of a shipping product. The photos do make it look ridiculously large. I know at least one co. is doing a m100 MP3 player though.

Registered: Apr 2001
Location:
Posts: 22

Quest for bblue

I use macs also, hence my user name. I just want to know what did you download to get the ir synching to work on your mac. I am running os 9.1 running on a 6500/275 that is equiped with ir. Could you let me know where to start.

Registered: Apr 2001
Location: Prison
Posts: 421

Infrared

There are IR downloads off of 3Com's website... I'm not sure of the address. They also came with my "Palm Extras" CD that had the desktop software. You first need to install the IR files on your handheld VIA the cradle. They should all be on the CD. If not, give me an eMail and I'll send you the files.

Also:
While IR hotsync isn't ALWAYS at it's fastest, on average, it beat out the Cradle hotsync by at least 10 seconds when loading a 2MB Tealmovie onto my IIIxe.

And while the PocketPyro 'supposedly' has yet to debut, the Palm� store is currently selling em. Yeah, it's a bit bulky, but it's pretty durn impressive.

The important thing about the IR sync is, it's wireless.
Thank'yee


And I got me a VDX! It's about stinking time!

__________________
<b><font size=1 color=teal>"Sorry about the whole thing about losing your life savings, but that Palmpilot is property of Enron, so please give it back"

Registered: Apr 2001
Location: Prison
Posts: 421

Infrared

There are IR downloads off of 3Com's website... I'm not sure of the address. They also came with my "Palm Extras" CD that had the desktop software. You first need to install the IR files on your handheld VIA the cradle. They should all be on the CD. If not, give me an eMail and I'll send you the files.

Also:
While IR hotsync isn't ALWAYS at it's fastest, on average, it beat out the Cradle hotsync by at least 10 seconds when loading a 2MB Tealmovie onto my IIIxe.

And while the PocketPyro 'supposedly' has yet to debut, the Palm� store is currently selling em. Yeah, it's a bit bulky, but it's pretty durn impressive.

The important thing about the IR sync is, it's wireless.
Thank'yee


And I got me a VDX! It's about stinking time!

__________________
<b><font size=1 color=teal>"Sorry about the whole thing about losing your life savings, but that Palmpilot is property of Enron, so please give it back"

Registered: Apr 2001
Location:
Posts: 22

Thanx for the info.

Thanx for the lead....I have another queston to ask. I downloaded the Activesky movie player and one of their movie content links are music videos http://launch.centerseat.com/wireless/
however I dont get sound have you found any such content for Tealmovie?

Registered: Feb 2000
Location:
Posts: 1571

TealPoint.com

MacSter you can find TealMovie content at www.tealpoint.com

Registered: Mar 2001
Location: Champaign, IL
Posts: 200

Re: Infrared

quote:

---

Originally posted by bblue
While IR hotsync isn't ALWAYS at it's fastest, on average, it beat out the Cradle hotsync by at least 10 seconds when loading a 2MB Tealmovie onto my IIIxe.

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But is that a SERIAL cradle hotsync? Now that you've got your Vdx , how fast is the 2MB sync with USB?

Registered: Apr 2001
Location: Prison
Posts: 421

I wish I knew

I wish I knew...


The person who I've bough my VDX from isn't responding....

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<b><font size=1 color=teal>"Sorry about the whole thing about losing your life savings, but that Palmpilot is property of Enron, so please give it back"

Registered: Mar 2000
Location: Davis, CA, USA
Posts: 72

HandSpring has seen the light!

Now HandSpring needs to permanently reduce the price of the Platinum plus reduce the Prism and Edge.

http://www.visorcentral.com/page/0-2-989-2.htm

Registered: Apr 2001
Location: Prison
Posts: 421

Agreed

To be honest, I can only imagine people buying the Edge and Prism only because they already have Springboard modules, or they hate Palm.

There's simply no advantage other than what media / expansion type you prefer that the Prism has over the M505. Screen is a matter of preference and where you use it the most. Handspring simply needs to cut the price!

It's time Handspring to lower the price of your Prism around $100.00 , and the Edge about $50.00 - $75.00 .

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<b><font size=1 color=teal>"Sorry about the whole thing about losing your life savings, but that Palmpilot is property of Enron, so please give it back"

Registered: Oct 2000
Location: Aberdeen, SD
Posts: 2531

Re: Agreed

quote:

---

Originally posted by bblue
To be honest, I can only imagine people buying the Edge and Prism only because they already have Springboard modules, or they hate Palm.

There's simply no advantage other than what media / expansion type you prefer that the Prism has over the M505. Screen is a matter of preference and where you use it the most. Handspring simply needs to cut the price!

It's time Handspring to lower the price of your Prism around $100.00 , and the Edge about $50.00 - $75.00 .

---

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-Joshua
Abortion: Darwinism at its finest.