Handspring has officially released a new version of it's Web browser. Blazer 2.0 offers all of the features of the original one, but with increased speed, improved security, and enhanced bookmarks. It works on any Palm OS device with an Internet connection, not just ones from Handspring. It is available now for $20. The upgrade is free for registered users of Blazer 1.1.

Sony has cut the price of the modem needed to connect to MYLO, their wireless service. Effective immediately, Sony S320 users can buy the modem adapter and removable PC card for $100, after a $100 mail-in rebate and with a 12-month service contract. The service offers unlimited Internet access for $40 a month.

While there is not a modem available for the high-end N series, rumor has it Sony will make one available by the end of this year.

During the third quarter of this year, Palm-branded handhelds increased their share of the European market by 5.6%, rising to a 37.9% share, according to a study by Gartner Dataquest. All handhelds running the Palm OS had a 54.9% of share of the European market, while the Pocket PC OS had 29.1%.

Sales of handhelds in total dropped 34.5% compared to the same quarter last year. The decline in Europe's economy has reversed what until now was a constantly increasing demand for handhelds.

TechNetAmerica is offering the Palm m505 for $375. -Anon

E&B now has the Slipper 610, a form-fitting leather case for the Sony N610C, in stock for $37. -Jerrod Hofferth

Though many people feel they can't justify the high cost, almost all handheld users would like to connect to the Internet with a wireless modem, if not soon then someday. For those who are already seriously considering getting wireless Internet access or those who are just curious, guest reviewer Davy Fields brings us his experiences with the Minstrel m500 Wireless Modem from Novatel.

Far and way the biggest news of the week was Sony announcement of the T415. Sony will also release a digital camera Memory Stick at the same time. The company released their quarterly financial results, too.

Palm Inc. has created some new services for developers and its deal with Be Inc. might be at risk.

Samsung SDI said this week that it expects to begin selling handheld-sized OLED screens by late 2003. They won't be selling them in notebook sizes until 2005.

The main advantages of OLED over current ones is the screen itself glows so there is no need for a back- or side-light. This means they require less power and take up less space, two important factors in a handheld. They also cost less to make.

The U.S. Navy has been recognized with a Government Agency Award for its innovative use of Palm handheld computers to grade pilot landings aboard aircraft carriers.

Landing Signal Officers (LSOs) aboard Navy aircraft carriers are responsible for grading and evaluating each aircraft landing for safety and accuracy. To eliminate an antiquated data-collection process once completed with a paper notebook and pen, the developers developed an application called PASS. This runs on Palm handhelds and allows LSOs to electronically grade by pilot and aircraft, and to input comments for each landing.

While Palm has announced plans to buy the intellectual property and technology assets of Be, Inc., the deal depends on a vote from Be's shareholders. According to The Register, that might not happen. Shareholder approval is needed to sell off all the company's assets and shut down. But Palm is only paying $11 million and, in the end, Be shareholders are going to get almost nothing. A recent Register articles warns, "enough users are cross about the imminent demise of the Be OS, that they might just try and sabotage the deal." The shareholders meeting will be November 12.

LandWare’s Author’s Bundle special has been expanded to now include the m100/m105 GoType! keyboard. A free GoType! Keyboard is included with the author's bundle of TakeNote! text processor and WordSleuth thesaurus $40. -David

Mobile Insights is now taking nominations for the 2002 Mobility Awards. -Ed

Handhelds are valuable items but they are also delicate. A good hardcase can go a long way towards preventing a small accident from sending an expensive palmtop to that great cradle in the sky. Or at least the repair shop. Rhinoskin makes a molded aluminum hardcase that fits the Palm m500 series and the V series, too. News Editor Ed Hardy brings us this review.