Comments on: First Reports of NR70 in Stores

A couple of readers have written to to report finding the Sony NR70 at DataVision, an electronics retailer on 5th Avenue in New York City. One of these is from Mike Cane, an occasional contributor to PIC, so there is no question of this being a hoax. There are also reports of finding them at CompUSA and Fry's in San Diego.

When Sony announced the NR series, it said both the NR70 and NR70V would be available in early May. However, when they were released in Japan, the NR70 was available for some time before the NR70V was, and Sony may be repeating this pattern in the U.S.

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Been to DataVision

I.M. Anonymous @ 4/28/2002 11:38:39 AM #
I got to play with this thing for about 20 minutes before the sales guy pryed it off my hands...Its pretty cool, and the swivel screen feels solid...meaning its not something that will break easily. Also the colors are waaaaaaaaaaaaaaaay better than the T615....Reds actually look red. One thing I didnt like is when the nr70 is in 'normal PDA mode' (or whatever its called) the application buttons are hidden, meaning that you cant play certain games when the PDA is folded open....it was the first thing i noticed....that really SUCKED.
RE: Been to DataVision
I.M. Anonymous @ 4/28/2002 11:49:38 AM #
Get a gameboy.
RE: Been to DataVision
I.M. Anonymous @ 4/28/2002 12:03:00 PM #
Datavision is a rip off
RE: Been to DataVision
I.M. Anonymous @ 4/28/2002 12:08:51 PM #
Is there any online retailers that ship to Canada that have it instock and ready to ship?
A respose to the ''Get a Gameboy'' comments.
I.M. Anonymous @ 4/28/2002 12:12:39 PM #
A respose to the "Get a Gameboy" comments.

More games are sold for Palm OS devices than all other types of software for Palm combined, according to Palm's own software sales figures.

The video game industry generates higher revenues than both the movie and music industies and to ignore that is to display utter ignorance of the industry, the technology, and the people who use it.

Games are big business and are the single largest driving force behind a great deal of new mobile technology, like GRPS, EDGE and UMTS and PDA's (both Window CE and Palm OS based).

Companies like Sony, SonyEricsson, Sega, as well network providers like Vodafone and Orange are counting on mobile games to be their key earners in the next 5 to 10 years.

You personally may not want to play games on your PDA but you are very much in the minority, according to software sales figures.

- Iain

RE: Been to DataVision
I.M. Anonymous @ 4/28/2002 12:24:17 PM #
I too saw it at datavision. The cashier tried to "upsell" me with a PPC, I got irritated and left without buying the thing. Anyway I want the camera one.

I hope sony pulls the plug on datavision

RE: Been to DataVision
I.M. Anonymous @ 4/28/2002 12:57:14 PM #
"Upsell"?!! I hope you told him off before you left.
RE: Been to DataVision
I.M. Anonymous @ 4/28/2002 1:19:38 PM #
When the NR70 is open in clamshell mode, can the screen be folded down to nearly flat? It seems that then playing games that need the hardware buttons wouldn't be so bad, even if the bottom part with the keyboard is sticking out. I'd like to hear from someone who has tried playing a game like this, to know if it is really more cumbersome than I imagine it.
RE: Been to DataVision
Fzara2000 @ 4/28/2002 1:28:36 PM #
"One thing I didnt like is when the nr70 is in 'normal PDA mode' (or whatever its called) the application buttons are hidden, meaning that you cant play certain games when the PDA is folded open....it was the first thing i noticed....that really SUCKED."

Hmm, thats not gonna be good since Sony is targeting the younger sales market, games are a neccessity, therefore this would be a major turnoff. IN addition, the keyboard is another falldown to the younger market, since we dont need to type enourmous stuff it.
I'm only hoping that the new Clie model PIC announced a while ago is true, and is the NR70 but without a keyboard and will be sold cheaper.

SONY ROCKS!

RE: Been to DataVision
I.M. Anonymous @ 4/28/2002 1:38:44 PM #
How can younger sales market afford $600 gadget? That's a FULL price desktop. if he is a true geek he might as well get a Zaurus at $499 and hack away by himself.

Plus really, what sort of big deal game are available in Palm? another millionth version of tetris or ababall?

RE: Been to DataVision
I.M. Anonymous @ 4/28/2002 1:45:38 PM #
Anybody who pays $500 - $600 for a PDA just to play games with has got more money than brains. A PDA just sucks as a game platform. To play the occaisional game is ok, but to make your purchase decision on whether or not you can play games with it - well, pardon me, but your immaturity is showing.
RE: Been to DataVision
I.M. Anonymous @ 4/28/2002 1:58:32 PM #
So, how many people do we know who buy $3000+ computers just to play games? Plenty. And it's gaming that has driven a majority of the advances in consumer graphics and made the Intel x86 architecture the dominant desktop computing platform. Given this, why is it so silly to have gaming be a major concern for someone buying a PDA? That's reality and should be a design concern for PDA makers or they risk being left behind.
RE: Been to DataVision
I.M. Anonymous @ 4/28/2002 1:58:44 PM #
a PDA shouldn't have to suck as a game platform anymore than a PC has to suck as a game platform. You can play games but you can do lots of other things with the same device instead of having to carry 2 things
RE: Been to DataVision
I.M. Anonymous @ 4/28/2002 2:05:57 PM #
The people at datavision are jerks....they dont know anything, and they will take every opportunity to rip you off. NYC people, dont buy anything from this store.

BTW, the fact that the application buttons are hidden when the screen is folded outward not only sucks when you occasionally want to play a game...but also it makes things more complicated than they should be. It may sound silly, but you actually have to search for those apps in the menu now...and what about those apps that arent jog dial compatable? Ive came across a few. certain apps just require you to use the scroll button (though older).

I think I'll stick with my t615 till OS 5 is released...This PDA is just not practicle, IMHO.

The NR70/70v will be a success though...they are just so unique and cool looking....and they keyboard its pretty comfortable to use.

RE: Been to DataVision
I.M. Anonymous @ 4/28/2002 2:24:04 PM #
I agree that sony PDAs are directed towards younger people...reguardless, the folding design just doesnt work for PDA's...in order to use this thing, you have to open it, flip it, the close it again...then repeat this when its time to put the thing back in your pocket. plus the stylus silo is on the bottom, which means you either have to have an extra stylus handy when this thing is plopped in the cradle, or you have to remove the styus and put it in the cradle's silo everytime you dock it.

all this may sound petty, but the NR series take away alot of the simplistic beauty unique to palm devices...

RE: Been to DataVision, yeah they suck
I.M. Anonymous @ 4/28/2002 2:25:20 PM #
DataVision Sucks. those salemen in suites think theyre professionals or something. they dont know ****...and if you return something you cant get a full refund.. just a store credit.
RE: Been to DataVision
I.M. Anonymous @ 4/28/2002 2:26:18 PM #
Bought mine at datavision on Friday. Sure they're not very helpful unless you corner them but this is new york. How many stores can you go to that the sales people jump to your aid. Was just at J and R and waited ten min. before anyone even came into the room. Then had to jump in front of him to get him to stop. Anyway, the screen of the NR-70 is amazing!! Sample photos loaded almost look as good as prints, of course that's how the samples should look. Haven't loaded any of my own yet.
RE: Been to DataVision
I.M. Anonymous @ 4/28/2002 2:35:50 PM #
I agree about the screen....Freakin amazing. The first thing I noticed was how viberant the red part of the hot sync icon was. Also, grafitti recognition is supurb. I didnt miss a letter, or write a 'O' when I really wanted an 'Q' once.

PLEASE SONY PLEASE release a non-flip pda with virtual grafitti and a screen as viberant and amazing as the NR series'.

RE: Been to DataVision
I.M. Anonymous @ 4/28/2002 2:39:07 PM #
"So, how many people do we know who buy $3000+ computers just to play games? Plenty."

More like hardly any. My latest PC cost me less than $1500. I know a bunch of PC gamers and I don't know a single person who has spent $3000 on a gaming PC.

"And it's gaming that has driven a majority of the advances in consumer graphics and made the Intel x86 architecture the dominant desktop computing platform."

Can you back the second part of this statement up? When asked to give the reason behind the PC's dominant market position, I'd probably go with Microsoft Windows products over Quake.

"Given this, why is it so silly to have gaming be a major concern for someone buying a PDA? That's reality and should be a design concern for PDA makers or they risk being left behind."

It's not silly if that's what is important to that person but I personally cannot see the attraction to PalmOS-based games. Completely underpowered CPU, slow graphics, lame sound and complete lack of gameplay depth. Sure I'll fool around awhile with Vexed or Yahdice but most times, I'd rather read an e-book or write on my PDA.

RE: Been to DataVision
I.M. Anonymous @ 4/28/2002 2:50:23 PM #
A hardcore PC gamer might have a $3000 machine, but most likely he build it himself and the cost was spread over individual components over time instead of actually "buying" a $3000 machine.

anyway back to palm, Palm is definitely lacking a 'fuller' gaming experiance. simply from the fact it is so limited in screen, sound, hardware power, and OS API. (bla bla bla...same old stories)

They should fix that, specially in light of how 30% or Palm retail softwares are actually games.

RE: Been to DataVision
I.M. Anonymous @ 4/28/2002 3:20:14 PM #
>>Can you back the second part of this statement up? When asked to give the reason behind the PC's dominant market position, I'd probably go with Microsoft Windows products over Quake.

Over 70% of computer software sales are games. People find it easier to justify purchasing a $1500 computer (because it is a serious 'productivity machine') then shelling a few hundred doolars for an x-box.

To the morons who think games are not important in PDA's
I.M. Anonymous @ 4/28/2002 6:04:00 PM #
I've said it before and I'll say it again - in the US the video games industry makes more money that the movie industry and the record industry combined (SOURCE: The Economist).

The sold software for Palm OS devices is games (SOURCE: Palm).

Sega have just annouced they will be release games for the Palm (SOURCE: Sega).

The NR70 is about convergance (SOURCE: Sony), it is a 2.5G device (using IR or a BlueTooth memory stick).


The single most important new revenue generator for 2.5G and 3G network operators is *games* (SOURCE: Vodafone, Orange). [This is closely followed by gambling and pornography.]

Games are very serious business. Why do you think Gameboys are so popular? The generate so much business that camers have had color handled games consoles for over a decade!


As for "Who spends 3000 USD on a PC for games?" well I did. Infact I spent 3000 UKP (which is over 4,300 USD).


I'm 22, own a m500 w/BlueTooth, and a T39m and and seriously considering simply getting an m515 instead of waiting for an NR70 because of the button issue (though I will give the NR70 a try when it comes out, and see if it is as alkward as it first seems).

...Though to be honest, the fact that my camera and G4 laptop support non-propriatory SD cards and so does the Palm is a factor - as is that BT MS are still not availible in London yet.

The price however, doesn't bother me at all and the placement of the buttons is still the biggest issue I have with it (though I will not judge it until I have tried it).


RE: Been to DataVision
I.M. Anonymous @ 4/28/2002 6:06:04 PM #
If you want proof that there are many people who buy ridiculously priced PCs in the $3000 and above range... just look at companies like Alienware and Falcon Northwest. These companies sell PCs that average in the $4,000 plus range and guess what, they haven't gone out of business yet. Actually, many of these high end PC companies eke out good profit margins due to their customer base... who apparently have more money than they know what to do with.
RE: Been to DataVision
I.M. Anonymous @ 4/28/2002 6:34:13 PM #
right. And remember the push for 2Ghz cpu's is also mainly about 1 thing and 1 thing only - games. Games are the only applications on home systems that require more and more horsepower. period. Only the tiniest fraction of people would use their home system, for anything that requires this kind of performance aside from games (3D games chew processor cycles like nothing else).
RE: Been to DataVision
popko @ 4/28/2002 8:49:55 PM #
"I've said it before and I'll say it again - in the US the video games industry makes more money that the movie industry and the record industry combined (SOURCE: The Economist)."

Good point.

Also, back in '97 I (and many others) had gaming PC well over $3000 USD. Why? Only that price could buy you PC that ran GL Quake at over 45 FPS. Now I'm much older, I no longer spend all my weekend online fraging and my current PC worth no more than $1000. However, there are and always will be kids who will do whatever it takes to get their latest game to run as smooth as possible.

DataVision! Ha!
I.M. Anonymous @ 4/29/2002 12:50:24 AM #
Hehehe, I used to work at their 'sister' company, RCS Inc. They used to have three stores, now they only have two I believe...

Anyway, don't buy ANYTHING from EITHER store. Complete criminals. If they say they've got "one more" in the stockroom, they're selling you a display. Many times I had to take a display model, strip the gunk with alcohol, etc. and repackage it to look like new. Not to mention their shady dealings, having TWO different names for the SAME store to get MORE product from companies! There was even an incident a while back at the now-closed location involving a heist of around 30 brand-new, top of the line IBM servers - and it ended up being an INSIDE job. Guess where the guy that was the prime suspect is now? Working at Datavision. Funnnny.

If you go ANYwhere, you're actually BETTER off going to the RCS location on 56h and Madison, just KNOW what you want. WAlk in and get it, don't talk to ANYone, get a RECEIPT, and INSPECT YOUR PURCHASE RIGHT AWAY!

Watch out for both those stores!

RE: Been to DataVision
He||Raiser @ 4/29/2002 1:27:04 AM #
This computer I'm typing on was $2500 when I built it and I have a friend who, with my advice, constructed a $2000 gaming system. I currently have a friend constructing a system, which will also be within the $2000 range. These systems have/had massive horsepower during the period of construction, and why, for games.

RE: Been to DataVision
WES I AM @ 4/29/2002 1:33:53 AM #
OMG!!!!!!!!!! RCS is part of DataVision!!!!!! no wonder!!! The people at RCS are ratbastards...I remember i bought the N series classic case for my S320 last summer because they ASSURED it would fit...guess what happened when i got home?????? THE VELCRO COVERED THE RESET BUTTON! And the RCS people didnt want to return it...only offer me store credit...GRRR!

STAY AWAY FROM RCS AND DATAVISION!!! Wait for the CompUSA (or anyother reputable electronics store) to carry the NR series if you are in NYC and want that PDA...at least those people are A**holes.

Palm Games SUCK!!!
I.M. Anonymous @ 4/29/2002 2:28:11 AM #
Palm games SUCK!!! hey, with the new CPU that gameboy emulator will work better... whats it called?
RE: Been to DataVision
I.M. Anonymous @ 4/29/2002 8:24:33 AM #
for those who only see demo version of NR70, I feel sorry for you if you really THINK that is NR70...
I got mine in Japan and played it for about 3 weeks.
I feel this model is good except for its size and battery life.
For gaming, I don't have problem while your NR70 left open. And also it depends on which games you play, some games did need your stylus anyway. Several Hi-res games are available. They really looks great.

For normal Flat PDA mode, I did have same impression like the very first comment when I first play around. However, there is one hack able to utilize the very bottom-status bar to emulate those four hard buttons, up and down buttons. Maybe more for later release of the hack. That does help a lot.

I think the most excited part about NR70 is its Screen Size....after you swtich to its Full screen, you will know what I am talking about. Several applications, like iSilo, ActionName, supported this 320X480 mode (sorry you won't see built-in applicatons in NR70, therefore, until you buy it, install it, an use it. You will see what I am talking). One other application can change those non-320X480 applications into 320X480 mode. That's really amazing.

anyway, there are more after you really installed your software. If you only use built-in applications in NR70 to judge the conclusion, you won't really apprecate it in $500.....

RE: Been to DataVision
I.M. Anonymous @ 4/29/2002 9:26:16 AM #
The current Gameboy is the greatest disappointment in the last 10 years of video gaming. A powerful platform with great developer support ruined by a sh***y screen without a backlight. Would us hardcore gamers pay $200 for a backlit GBA? Absolutely. So who's stopping anyone from paying a few hundred more for a full-featured handheld that can play killer games as well?

Palm OS games only suck because A. The physical hardware sucks for gaming B. Developers have not put in a sincere effort to make a "killer app" for it (aside from Bejeweled and Zap 2016). Otherwise fine titles such as Rayman and Serious Sam are destined for failure because of the utter lack of developer foresight to allow the games to run off a memory card.

Imagine Sony making a new unit w/ N-series formfactor, virtual graffitti and, most importantly, a DIRECTIONAL controller like the old Zoomer had. Can it be _that_ hard to do? Look at the Widget Works Palm Gamepad from a few years ago. That's all you need, just integrate that D-pad into the chasis somehow...

RE: Been to DataVision
I.M. Anonymous @ 4/29/2002 10:07:05 AM #
I'm one of those that wouldn't even consider the NR series because of the button placement. I may be over 30, but that doesn't mean I don't like games! My Clie is not only a portable office, but portable entertainment when I am on the road, whether it's books to read, MP3s to listen to, or games to play. I could probably restrict myself to games that don't use the buttons (like Bejeweled) but there is another problem with the NR in terms of games and that's battery life. Games with any amount of animation really sap batteries on my 710C, which has twice the battery life of the NR units. I'd hate to think of how little playtime I would get with those.
RE: Been to DataVision
I.M. Anonymous @ 4/29/2002 12:34:10 PM #
Like the guy said above: GAMEPAD!! (or for you uptight whiners: 'direction-pad'). I mean - the space for it is right there under the keyboard!!!! I coudn't believe it when i saw this unit the first time - so perfect - yet with this wide open space just sitting there, insulting our intelligence with its obvious lack of the one thing that could have put this unit completely over the top! i mean, its like 4 square inches of unused space!!! it would have been so easy....
The NR70 *IS* Gamer-Friendly!
mashoutposse @ 4/29/2002 3:31:05 PM #
For you gamers out there - this clamshell design DOES NOT mean you have to give up gaming on your PDA! I actually like this setup better instead of holding a top-heavy PDA with no support at the bottom, on the NR70, the keyboard part actually 'hooks' under the fat part of the base of your palm, providing even more support! All you have to do is hold the buttons as you would on any traditional PDA (as if the section with the buttons is the bottom of the device). The whole apparatus isn't even that much taller, since the keyboard part slides in between your wrists where an empty space used to be. I just played Zap! and this setup works perfectly. I cannot BELIEVE how well thought out this device is.

Trust me, it is as gamer-friendly (if not moreso) than any CLIE before it. And it's not like this is the first CLIE to lack a 4-way directional (in fact, how many Palm OS devices even have this?).

RE: Been to DataVision
I.M. Anonymous @ 4/29/2002 9:45:42 PM #
Question - which hack allows for SW versions of the HW buttons?

Thanks!


I heard that the gmovie software is much better than T615...

I.M. Anonymous @ 4/28/2002 2:06:54 PM #
Has anyone tried that with the new NR 70 yet? Would be a nice presentation tool to have handy...
RE: I heard that the gmovie software is much better than T615...
cykalan @ 4/28/2002 2:33:11 PM #
i can guarantee you that: NO.

a T6xx overclocked to 55Mhz or 66Mhz would be as good as a NR70 viewing gmovies

Alan
----
Read your manuals before you ask!!

RE: I heard that the gmovie software is much better than T615...
TypeMRT @ 4/28/2002 6:12:09 PM #
...until you overclock the NR70 to 80+ Mhz

RE: I heard that the gmovie software is much better than T615...
sophmeat @ 4/28/2002 7:59:00 PM #
or 100mhz..... i think im gonna need some cooling, heh

---------------------------------
Oh wow! Guys check this out! The new Clie has more than 1000 dpi!! Guys? Hey come back here! *runs after them holding a spec sheet* I didnt even show you the Keyboard!!!!!
presentation tool? hardly
I.M. Anonymous @ 4/28/2002 11:55:46 PM #
Without a VGA output built-in (or even available), it's not very useful as a presentation tool.
RE: I heard that the gmovie software is much better than T615...
I.M. Anonymous @ 4/29/2002 4:43:45 AM #
That's what standart peripheral/expansion slot are for. There is actually a CF VGA card, and showing Presentation directly to the monitor is an old trick in PPC. (Handspring has a monitor springboard, but mor elimited software support)
RE: I heard that the gmovie software is much better than T615...
I.M. Anonymous @ 4/29/2002 9:07:19 AM #
Actually, the Margi Presenter-to-Go Springboard is NOT limited in its software support. PTG allows you to exhibit Powerpoint slides AND HTML documents, Word documents, and Excel documents. That's hardly what I would call "limited software support."
RE: I heard that the gmovie software is much better than T615...
I.M. Anonymous @ 4/29/2002 1:36:24 PM #
can it present your own slide show from another program? how about a movie clip?
RE: I heard that the gmovie software is much better than T615...
I.M. Anonymous @ 4/30/2002 12:31:14 PM #
sure a T615 would be as good, but the colour would SUCK.

T-615 over new sony

I.M. Anonymous @ 4/28/2002 2:26:27 PM #
I am a happy T-615 owner. Yes the hardware buttons sux and the up down buttons are not the best but for $300 it was ok...I do like to play games on my pilot. This new series is ok but who the heck wants to fold out there pda to get an address or note. The simple design of the t-615 is like a not pad. Flip teh cover turn it on and type. If you are like me and buy a pda every other pda that comes out....like I went from a prism to a t615 they are going to come out with this new sony with Os 5.Then we can consider trading in our t-615. To the guy who tried to sell you a pocket pc...screw him...PPc sux..

Why Does Opening the NR70 Bug People?

I.M. Anonymous @ 4/28/2002 4:24:44 PM #
I've seen several comments that the NR70 design is too complex because it requires you to open it up to use it. I guess I don't get this. Many people put their PDA's in a case, which requires you to take it out/open a lid or some such before using it. I love the design of the Palm IIIc's flip-open cover, since I don't need a separate case and can easily flip it open and get to my screen/buttons.

Isn't the NR70 just as easy to use as this? I haven't touched one yet, but it seems like you just flip it open and are ready to go. If this isn't so for some reason, I'd like to know why, 'cause I've got one on order and one of the big reasons for getting it is not needing a separate case to protect it.

RE: Why Does Opening the NR70 Bug People?
I.M. Anonymous @ 4/28/2002 4:31:05 PM #
Just came back from compusa. The NR70 is very impressive and a lot smaller than I had expected. IF they had had one in stock I would have bought one on the spot. The magnesium alloy case feels more like plastic and the keyboard half of the pda is VERY thin. I did notice dark spots at the top of the screen. The keys on the keyboard are very small and will take some getting used to . After a little practice switching from clamshell to legacy pda mode was very quick and painless. Jog dial feels very solid (unlike the handera) Overall the form factor is perfect and nothing in the are of size is to be desired IMHO. I wish I had had a MS on me to test out some of the multimedia features. But I guess that'll have to wait. Hinge and swivel feel very solid.

Played with it for about 15 minutes

I.M. Anonymous @ 4/28/2002 4:38:28 PM #
Impressions:
Felt a lot thinner than I had anticipated.
Noticeable faster CPU.
Virtual graffiti kept up with me - no problem.
Long-ish, but very pocketable. I'd worry about loose change, car keys scratching the case (or even the camera lens - but the one I looked at didn't have a camera).
Colors were GREAT. I loaded LCD Analyzer and the primary colors were all great.
It does require two hands to get it up and running (rather than flipping the leather flap of the M505 out of the way).
Very solid feeling case. The hinge and pivot point are both feel sufficiently rugged.
Why is there a power LED? Isn't that just running the battery down even faster!?
The sounds were impressive - as was the screen size.
Stylus is a little thin, kind of cramps your hand after awhile.
With practice, I think the keyboard entry might work (but only when setting the unit on a table - one handed typing while holding it in the other hand really doesn't work...)
All-in-all, a very well executed device. It will turn a lot of heads until the "next big thing."
RE: Played with it for about 15 minutes
I.M. Anonymous @ 4/28/2002 4:58:00 PM #
i wonder when best buy is gonna get it... so i can complain about the dust problem in my N-760 and get this as a replacement ^_^. I love the 3 year warranty thing. When the OS5 Sony PDA comes out, im gonna have an "convienient" power surge in my cradle...
RE: Played with it for about 15 minutes
I.M. Anonymous @ 4/28/2002 5:24:28 PM #
And while you're at it, I hope someone acquires your credit card number or bank card number and drains your bank account, or uses your social security number to steal your identity, open credit accounts under your name, and ruin your credit. No different than what you suggest- FRAUD is FRAUD.
RE: Played with it for about 15 minutes
I.M. Anonymous @ 4/28/2002 6:02:46 PM #
Don't worry about scratching the camera lens by accident on an NR70V from what I've seen, the camera can swivel in such a way that the lens completely is protected.

I think that the reason for the power LED is because the NR70/NR70V has a "Hold" switch that turns off the screen. The power LED lets you know that the screen is disabled but that the device is still on.

RE: Played with it for about 15 minutes
Fzara2000 @ 4/28/2002 6:04:48 PM #
To the poster above me, i think you posted this in the wrong post.
You must have meant to reply to the cracker above.
Cracking is illegal, but it is practical as all applications on the Palm cost money, are some are even stupid to pay money for.
Who is going to pay money for a bike riding journal?

SONY ROCKS!
RE: Played with it for about 15 minutes
I.M. Anonymous @ 4/28/2002 6:15:26 PM #
I think the poster of the Fraud comment was referring to the guy who was waiting for Best Buy to receive NR models. That guy wanted to complain of a "dust problem" with his N760 model and try to get the NR70 as a replacement. Too bad warranties don't work that way... Best Buy has the option to repair the item first if your complaint is considered a problem.

And again, you should read about what Best Buy did to some people on a deal that they posted then pulled from their website several months ago. Here's the link

http://www.geek.com/news/geeknews/2002apr/gee20020424011358.htm

Major Best Buy PR mess and likely multimillion dollar lawsuits!

RE: Played with it for about 15 minutes
I.M. Anonymous @ 4/28/2002 8:04:13 PM #
well the first thing _technically_ isnt fraud, since best buy doesnt know how to clean this stuff out(i know cause i asked about the problem on my 710c. All they did was give me a new one). All he would have to do is wait for the old clie to stop being sold at best buy, since the dust problem really is a manufacturing defect.

now the 2nd thing the guy said, _that_ is fraud.

RE: Played with it for about 15 minutes
I.M. Anonymous @ 4/29/2002 1:05:40 PM #
I brought my 615 from Best Buy with the warranty.. I was told by the Saleperson, that is was a easy way to upgrade since even though the warranty states repair or replace, they never repair anything, they just replace.
I got the same line from two different CompUSA salesppl are two different stores.
If you want to take issue with anyone, go bitch at the sales ppl that tell you this in order to sell the warranty.
RE: Played with it for about 15 minutes
Liam @ 4/29/2002 1:07:18 PM #
Saw it too! At Datavision (39th & 5th). Nice! Just don't buy it at Datavision or RCS. They both suck. You can't return it for $. Plus, $499 plus 8.25% tax? For the NR70? I paid $489 for the NR70V from Dell. Hope it comes soon. :)

The NR70 has a different feel, but it's not heavy or large. Color is the best I've seen on a Palm. Opening / flipping is not a problem. Feels rock solid.

Liam in N.Y.

I have one.

I.M. Anonymous @ 4/28/2002 5:14:08 PM #
EXCELLENT unit. Very slick piece of work. My initial impressions of the hardware are definitely favorable the keyboard seems very functional (fat fingers beware, though ), and I must have twisted the screen a dozen times already :)

In my honest opinion, this machine is as good as a PalmOS4 device can ever possibly hope to be, and all Palm fans should AT LEAST take it out for a test drive. The 66Mhz processor really makes a difference I swear this thing is as powerful as my ARM-powered iPaq 3835 (which will now take a seat on the FAAAR end of the bench ).

The screen possesses the brightness and clarity of the T615C (and it's actually a bit superior in these areas), and has practically perfect color saturation. Impeccable. The only issue that I have with the screen is that the backlighting isn't exactly even in one spot (the edge of the screen at that black plastic piece). About 1/8" off that edge is not lit uniformly -- this is only noticeable when the machine in 'clamshell' form (as opposed to 'traditional PDA' form). When the machine is in 'traditional PDA' form, the grey status bar at the bottom of the screen does a great job of completely hiding this flaw (which may be specific to my unit).

The entire body is magnesium (it's actually one of the unit's selling points), and I've been told that it's really scratch resistant (I'll get back to you with personal impressions after I make the mandatory mistake of putting it in the same pocket as my keys ). Unlike my iPaq, the body doesn't feel slippery, and it doesn't attract fingerprints at all. I've been playing around with it all day and have yet to see any fingerprints anywhere (in comparison, by the end of my first two hours with the iPaq, it was covered with them). Also, applying pressure on the unit yields absolutely no flex (again, unlike my 3835).

Build quality on this Sony device is not an issue. You can tell that it is a $500 device (especially with that beautiful 320x480 screen turned on ).

And the 66Mhz proc provides a very noticeable speed increase, especially for games (Bejeweled! and Race Fever almost seemed to be in fast-forward compared to my N760C). And G-Movie actual is useable now :)

The sound is very clear (almost as good as my 3835). Going from an m515 to an NR70 is akin to going from PC speaker output to wavetable sound. And it's even better than the T615C.

Flipping the screen is NOT a big deal, and it looks very cool, especially if you have your technique down :) Yes, it's definitely a two-handed process, and that's why this device is not for everyone.

And for you gamers out there - this clamshell design DOES NOT mean you have to give up gaming on your PDA! I actually like this setup better instead of holding a top-heavy PDA with no support at the bottom, on the NR70, the keyboard part actually 'hooks' under the fat part of the base of your palm, providing even more support! The whole apparatus isn't even that much taller, since the keyboard part slides in between your wrists where an empty space used to be. I cannot BELIEVE how well thought out this device is.

I'd give it a 95%. Definitely lives up to the hype, IMO.


RE: I have one.
I.M. Anonymous @ 4/28/2002 8:11:49 PM #
Opening it has been reported as requiring two hands... however, how is one-handed operation besides that? I often look up stuff only one hand and don't want to lose this ability. Also, how is the keyboard?

I'm debating whether to get an NR70 or wait and see if Sony next new model (rumored to come out in June) will be a T615 with 480x320 and 66 MHz.

On that note, do you have any comments on the clamshell model vs a non-clamshell model with the same screen and CPU? Which would you prefer?

RE: I have one.
mashoutposse @ 4/28/2002 8:25:36 PM #
If you flip it open so the device takes on the 'traditional PDA' form, you retain the same one-handed control as you had with previous Jog Dial/Back Button equipped CLIEs. The 'clamshell' form is designed primarily for two handed usage, although it certainly isn't impossible to use it one handed in that form.

If I had to pick between a 'conventional' NR70 and the current clamshell model, honestly, I'd still go with the clamshell (I am NOT justifying my purchase, BTW :). The clamshell is designed to give you the best of both worlds, which it succeeds admirably in doing. Why limit my options?

I'd probably be singing a different tune if the keyboard wasn't very uesr-friendly (which it is).

RE: I have one.
I.M. Anonymous @ 4/29/2002 2:30:10 AM #
SO WHATS UP WITH THE PHONE CARD? WILL I BE ABLE TO USE THE CLAM SHELL TO SPEAK INTO OR WILL IT ONLY BE FOR A HEADSET?

Nr70 in stock at some best buy's

randomguy1900 @ 4/28/2002 6:30:23 PM #
I was looking around the computer system at work yesteraday and I saw that the wharehouse has about 500 nr70s...also looking on Sony's web site it said the nr70 would be avaliable on the 28 so I would expect to see the Nr70 any day now and i know if my Best buy doesnt have them now then they will be wednesday.....which means I will have one by wednesday...yeah

Rob
Boycotting Best Buy
I.M. Anonymous @ 4/28/2002 8:12:02 PM #
After reading the following story, I strongly suggest anyone who shops at Best Buy reads it as well:

http://makeashorterlink.com/?D24C505C

RE: Nr70 in stock at some best buy's
Fzara2000 @ 4/28/2002 10:45:11 PM #
thats B.S and speculation.
I really doubt if that really happened, and if it did, it wont happen again as BB corporate would have read about this speculation and fixed/fired it/people.

SONY ROCKS!
IN-STOCK AT BEST BUY WEB STORE
terrysalmi @ 4/28/2002 10:45:50 PM #
Bestbuy.com has the NR-70 (Not the NR-70V though) on their site with the following message:

In Stock - Usually ships in 2-3 business days. Not available for store pickup.

RE: IN-STOCK AT BEST BUY WEB STORE
Fzara2000 @ 4/28/2002 10:56:04 PM #
again, read that website's article.
It could be another hoax, where you'll get arrested for ordering something on their website. LOL
Someone please order, and instantly sue if ANYTHING happens.

SONY ROCKS!
RE: IN-STOCK AT BEST BUY WEB STORE
I.M. Anonymous @ 4/29/2002 1:19:26 AM #
I checked it out and got the price by clicking on "Buy". Bestbuy.com is selling it at a $25 discount for $474.99

RE: Nr70 in stock at some best buy's
I.M. Anonymous @ 4/29/2002 6:31:15 AM #
This did happen... there was a long thread at /. on it, including a detailed account by the person arrested!
Arrests at BestBuy
I.M. Anonymous @ 4/29/2002 1:16:04 PM #
Show me the story in a reputable news site (or, god forbid, actually printed somewhere) and then I'll believe it. Until then, it's just more fodder for snopes.com's urban legends.
RE: Nr70 in stock at some best buy's
I.M. Anonymous @ 4/29/2002 4:17:59 PM #
Slashdot is infamous for this type of crappy biased reporting. A lot of these types of stories on there you'll find later on that there was another side that the person didn't want to admit. Of course Slashdot never posts that part when it is revealed in real newspapers.
RE: Nr70 in stock at some best buy's
I.M. Anonymous @ 4/29/2002 4:30:35 PM #
Slashdot IS NOT a news site. DOH! It's a blogger with open forum. and what makes you think news site like PIC is not slanted or biased?
RE: Nr70 in stock at some best buy's
I.M. Anonymous @ 4/29/2002 7:36:32 PM #
Rob what PDA do you currently use?

Hack Incompatability?

I.M. Anonymous @ 4/28/2002 7:08:44 PM #
What kind of hack compatability have you early purchasers found. I'm particularly interested in hacks that use the silkscreen area & buttons.
RE: Hack Incompatability?
LC @ 4/29/2002 11:46:23 PM #
keyboard hack does not work, nor does middle caps hack nor does jot! and phlemhack may not work either...
Bummer huh?

What I DO guess is that if / when hacks come out to take advantage of this area, some really interesting things should crop up, like putting usefull icons on the bottom status bar, etc.

= = =
LC =
= = =

Can I sync the NR70V on my Mac OS X????

I.M. Anonymous @ 4/28/2002 7:09:42 PM #
Can I sync the NR70V on my Mac OS X????
RE: Can I sync the NR70V on my Mac OS X????
I.M. Anonymous @ 4/28/2002 7:34:55 PM #
For a time, until Palm Desktop 4 just arbitrarily decides to stop working. What a pain in the ass.
RE: Can I sync the NR70V on my Mac OS X????
hadocon @ 4/28/2002 10:24:31 PM #
get rid of that beta you are using. 4.0 final release works great! Even better then in OS 9 IMHO...

v 70

I.M. Anonymous @ 4/28/2002 8:17:10 PM #
The Sony V 70 was at Freys in Burbank, Ca. on April 27th..

Sony's Internal Speaker

I.M. Anonymous @ 4/28/2002 8:18:31 PM #
Does this one have their speaker, and if so is it mono or stereo?
RE: Sony's Internal Speaker
mashoutposse @ 4/28/2002 8:23:58 PM #
The speaker is mono. It's better than any speaker on any previous Palm device, I can tell you that.

Waiting 4 June Sony

I.M. Anonymous @ 4/28/2002 9:04:26 PM #
Anyone have any information about the sony thats going 2 come out in June?

RE: Waiting 4 June Sony
mashoutposse @ 4/28/2002 9:32:43 PM #
Haven't heard anything about a new Sony coming out in June. Wouldn't make sense -- the NR70V wouldn't even be two weeks old.

RE: Waiting 4 June Sony
Fzara2000 @ 4/28/2002 10:50:31 PM #
if anyone finds out anything...TELL ME.
I'm thinking this will be a greyscale model for sony, since they had to stop the S series PDA.

SONY ROCKS!
RE: Waiting 4 June Sony
I.M. Anonymous @ 4/28/2002 11:37:14 PM #
they dont have to replace the S series...its the low end model...plus its one heck of a pda...what they need to replace is the t615's screen...not that the t415 was discontinued, the T615 lifespan isnt too long...i forsee T series replacements...
RE: Waiting 4 June Sony
T.W.G @ 4/29/2002 7:42:00 AM #
Hi,

I've read, too about rumors of a new Sony device in June. This device will run OS 5 and is hopefully an update of the T6xx with its bad screen!

greetings from germany


Thomas

Like the Olympics

I.M. Anonymous @ 4/29/2002 6:48:25 AM #
Let the games begin.

Well, this should kill off the T615.

RE: Like the Olympics
I.M. Anonymous @ 4/29/2002 9:09:15 AM #
Ahhh, isn't technology obsolescence sweet? 4 weeks ago, my T615 was the ultimate Palm OS PDA. Now it's a piece of obsolete garbage with a crappy screen. I think some of you guys have T615C envy.
RE: Like the Olympics
I.M. Anonymous @ 4/29/2002 10:17:51 AM #
no, now that we get to compare the T615's screen to the NR70, we actually get to see how crappy the screen was.....BRING ON THE NEXT CLIE PLEASE! (anyone wanna buy a used T615?) :)
RE: Like the Olympics
stephen007 @ 4/29/2002 11:41:07 AM #
Ugh. My wife is going to kill me. I only bought my 615 in January and now it looks like I'm going to buy the NR model.

been to datavision an hour ago..

I.M. Anonymous @ 4/29/2002 1:52:12 PM #
yup, i saw it and it's great. i have a 760c and i plan on selling it after i saw the nr70. it seemed lighter than my 760, not as big as i thought and the screen hinge seemed tight. not loose or flimsey like i was afraid of. the screen was the best i've ever seen although the digitizer needed a little calibrating. for some reason, in picturegear pocket, there was an image of wtc on fire, i wonder if someone beamed it over to look at of it it was a sony demo pic. odd but not important. the important thing was the colors, they were great. the real desiding factor for me was gmovie, it accually work without skipping frames. i had it running at 160/120 15fps and it was usable. one ting i wanted to do with a plam is use it to watch shows i missed on tv the night before. i believe this unit can do a good job of it. it won't be perfect but it's a hell of a lot better than an overclocked 760.
it was real comfortable in the hand (i have big hands).
the keyboard i didn't try but it looked ok.
all in all, i was happy with it and certainly plan to by the 70v (call me crazy but i like the camera)
but i sure as hell won't buy it in datavision, i don't like their reps or their prices.
one final comment, there was a guy there with an ipaq who mentioned selling it in favor of the nr70, he says the sony's screen is better

RE: been to datavision an hour ago..
I.M. Anonymous @ 4/29/2002 3:56:28 PM #
yeah datavision sucks.
RE: been to datavision an hour ago..
I.M. Anonymous @ 4/29/2002 6:56:31 PM #
Datavision does indeed suck. There have been rumors that organized crime is their main backer, and they sell Grey Market goods in place of US warranted goods. of course they never tell you that. Go there only to play with the merchandise and then leave.
RE: been to datavision an hour ago..
I.M. Anonymous @ 4/30/2002 6:08:02 PM #
Forgive my lack of knowledge, but how do you watch a TV show on a Palm? Is there some way to download it in PDA format from the network? Or are you recording it to your PC from a cable connection?
RE: been to datavision an hour ago..
I.M. Anonymous @ 4/30/2002 7:04:57 PM #
you cannot watch stream video on palm. (TV)


Datavision SUCKS! Criminal Company......
I.M. Anonymous @ 7/8/2002 9:48:33 PM #
Datavision is definitely criminal. I ordered recently from them, and I called them up on phone ordering some Sony Clie products. They said that they definitely had the products "In Stock". They shipped part of the order three weeks later, but the majority of the order was back ordered. We decided to cancel the remaining part of the order. We called them up and they said that they understood why we canceled the order. 5 weeks later, they still charged and shipped the canceled order.

That pisses me off. NEVER BUY FROM DATAVISION!!!!!

Any NR70 in Houston?

I.M. Anonymous @ 4/29/2002 3:18:19 PM #
Has anyone seen the NR70 show up in any Houston region CompUSA or Best Buy stores yet?
RE: Any NR70 in Houston?
I.M. Anonymous @ 4/29/2002 8:22:04 PM #
No but PCConnection has the NR70 in stock now.

www.pcconnection.com

RE: Any NR70 in Houston?
I.M. Anonymous @ 4/30/2002 1:35:40 PM #
I was just in one of the CompUSA stores in Houston, nothing yet.

What's PC Connection like? Anyone ordered stuff from them in the past?

Available in canada at future shop

I.M. Anonymous @ 4/30/2002 12:02:26 AM #
Sony CLIÉ PEG-NR70V. Available for preorder for only $999.99. Expected May 15.

MP3 Compatibility?

I.M. Anonymous @ 4/30/2002 1:17:09 AM #
I was wondering if anyone knows if the new Sony PEG-NR70V will be able to play standard MP3 files or if they must be encoded to Sony's old CLIE format? On the earlier models (760), you had to use a proprietary memory stick and Sony's encoding software that was a pain.
RE: MP3 Compatibility?
I.M. Anonymous @ 4/30/2002 5:53:09 AM #
The 760 plays regular MP3 files from the purple memory stick with out a problem.
RE: MP3 Compatibility?
Kaitou @ 4/30/2002 7:22:14 AM #
I have no idea what you are talking about with the 760... I have the unit, and all I have to do is put an mp3 on the memory stick in the msaudio folder

MYLO

Isaiahp @ 4/30/2002 7:56:12 AM #
I wonder if they are going to introduce MYLO service for this bad boy. The monochrome S320 was the only one supported before.... I like the online service. It's the only thing holding me to my Plam VIIx.

Well, I can wish for an mLife, right?

Battery life comparisons?

I.M. Anonymous @ 4/30/2002 3:10:53 PM #
Anyone want to take on the battery issue compare to T615 and m515?

Would be quite a deciding factor for me and I think it would be to all who wish to buy one..

RE: Battery life comparisons?
WES I AM @ 4/30/2002 6:02:04 PM #
its ten days under normal use (30 minutes per day) expect to charge this thing everynight....expecially if you plan on listening to MP3s.

Shop Sony Status

I.M. Anonymous @ 4/30/2002 6:11:24 PM #
Can anyone tell me why, when I preordered an NR70 from the Sony site, I am not receiving my Clie until May 18th (yes, this is what Sony told me over the phone) and others, who purchased theirs from Amazon, and other sites, will be getting theirs within a week?

Gee, should I cancel my order with Sony and buy from Amazon? What's up. One would think that Sony would send to pre-order customers first???

RE: Shop Sony Status
I.M. Anonymous @ 5/1/2002 10:07:02 AM #
I'm not all that surprised really.

Personally, I would rather buy from a local source (CUSA, BB, Fry's here in Houston) than online. After searching for a day and calling around, I couldn't find any, so I put in an order at Amazon.

Except, I've cancelled and re-ordered at Amazon at least 3 times now. I've cancelled it for the last time since I'm going to visit Fry's to grab on of the NR70 in person.

Less hassles if I do want to return it later on or if there is problems. Same price anyhow.

Charging

I.M. Anonymous @ 5/2/2002 1:50:43 PM #
If I'm not mistaken, I can use my old T415 portable charging cable/hotsyn with the new NR70 - or at least that's what the documentation that came with my NR70 implies.

I just thought I'd mention it because I read on one of these thread that the only way the unit can be charged is with the cradle.

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