Manufacturer: PalmOne Model#: 3C8050.1U Weight: .42lbs Height: .70"     Width: 3.20" Length: 4.70" Average Rating: 4 out of 5 Stars	Retail Price: $199.99 Online Sale Price: $257.99
Features: 8 MB RAM, 4 times the memory of the standard Palm VII handheld Stores thousands of addresses, appointments, to-do items, and memos Provides instant access to the Internet, e-mail, and messaging Wireless connectivity requires Palm.Net service, featuring several monthly subscription options What's in the box: Palm VIIx, Stylus pen, AC adapter, PC serial port, Hotsync docking cradle, Protective leather cover, Palm Desktop software

User Submitted PalmOne VIIx Wireless Handheld Reviews (cont...)

In the past, I tried several different paper-based organizers. While useful for a short while, they eventually ended up in what my husband calls the "Personal Organizer Boneyard". Either they were too bulky, or didn't have enough space to write longer notes, or were limited in terms of their ability to be upgraded. Upon entering graduate school, I knew I would need something that would last. Furthermore, with my travel schedule, I needed a device that would allow me to maintain contact via email.

I initially was reticent about spending such a high amount for an organizer, especially given my history of rapid disposal. What I have learned, however, is that the Palm is so much more. I use it daily, which is more than I can ever say for any of the paper-based organizers I owned. I believe this has been a function of the ease in upgrading the unit, which I have been able to do using various free and shareware downloads and the HotSync/Desktop software.

Aside from how well it has worked for me to personally organize, the wireless internet feature of the VIIx has been a godsend. I have never had a problem connecting, even when visiting family in northern New England. While some may be concerned that the availability of "web-clipping" apps rather than a full-browser is limiting, I find that the ability to locate small pieces of information, such as my email, traffic information and the nearest Starbucks, is more than sufficient. The only downside to the wireless feature is the PalmNet service. Unfortunately, PalmNet is the only game in town. As such, the lack of competition will continue to drive their service and pricing behavior until additional firms providing the same service enter the market.

Although newer Palm models (the m500 and m505, I believe) offer the ability to go wireless, neither has a built-in modem like the VIIx. From my estimation, one would need to additionally purchase a modem card, which does not make these newer, lower-up-front priced models such a bargain.

If you are trying to decide between going for the Palm V or Vx, or one of the newer models, and the VIIx, go for it and spend the extra money. It will be worth it!

Date: 2001-04-03
Horrible Product and Lousy Customer Service
They 're joking when they tell you the battery lasts 4 weeks. I'm lucky if I get two! The only thing worse than the product design is the customer service (or lack thereof). The best thing I can say about Palm is that I made a boat load of money shorting their stock after two weeks of owning the worst product I've ever purchased.

Date: 2001-03-02
forseeable future?
Why? Why a handheld of the caliber of the Palm VIIx wireless can't do a simple thing like put a plug-in for a earpiece and make it become a 2-way communicating device (commonly known as a phone?).

Date: 2001-02-07
Great for wireless access...but otherwise same as Palm III
For 2 years I owned a Palm III. It was great - organized my time, appts, schedules, phone numbers, contacts, etc. A few months ago I got the Palm VII - for wireless access. So far, I have used the wireless Mapquest and other services, like email (virtually EVERY provider can be accessed through this)... so if you need wireless access get this. Otherwise, if you just need an organizer..just go for the Palm III