Sony Introduces a PSP-size Wi-Fi Audio/Video Communicator

This week Sony announced a new device called the Mylo, which is a handheld communications and media device roughly the same size as Sony's PSP. Despite the similarities in size, the Mylo screen actually slides up to reveal a full QWERTY keyboard where users can use to type up instant messages, browse the web and type up emails.

The Mylo comes equipped with GoogleTalk as well as Yahoo! Messenger. Incidentally, Yahoo! Messenger is now compatible with Microsoft's Live Messenger -- users who were wondering whether or not they would be able to talk to Microsoft Messenger users need not worry. This is likely the reason why Microsoft's Messenger was omitted from the software package. AOL Instant Messenger is not supported.

According to Sony's press release "The mylo personal communicator boots up in seconds and can scan for available wireless networks right away. The 'What’s Up' screen serves as the hub, storing up to 90 of your friends’ avatars so you can quickly see who’s online.  You can store up to nine online identities per person which allows you to first choose who you want to chat with then easily initiate conversations using your preferred application."

The biggest feature of the Mylo is its Skype integration. Users can use Mylo's built in Wi-Fi capabilities to link up to an Internet connection and make calls through their Skype user account. Unfortunately, the Mylo is not a mobile phone and therefore does not have mobile connectivity features such as GSM.

In terms of multimedia features, the Mylo supports MPEG4 video playback and MP3, ATRAC and WMA support for audio. JPG image playback is supported. The unit has a 320x240 screen, which is not in the same aspect ratio as widescreen movies (16:9). Battery life is strong for audio, lasting roughly 45 hours. For more productive uses, the unit lasts up to 7 hours and just 3 hours for continuous talking through Skype. The Mylo also comes with a Memory Stick Duo expansion slot but comes integrated with 1GB of memory. Sony says that the Mylo will be available come September for $350.

Tuan Nguyen
August 8, 2006

http://images.dailytech.com/nimage/2246_large_2244_large_mylo_Final_Shot_300dpi_lg.jpg

Source: Daily Tech
posted on Tuesday, August 08, 2006 6:59 PM by Auri

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