NetbookTech

At first glance, you might think this is a netbook system. It is in fact the REDFLY - a portable terminal device designed to connect to Windows Mobile smartphones using either a USB cable or a wireless Bluetooth connection.

So why are we talking about it at NetbookTech.com? Because it leverages a similar form factor and it’s another way to look at small inexpensive mobile devices for those on the go.

What makes the REDFLY so unique is the fact that it leverages your existing resource – your Windows Mobile based smartphone (assuming you have one of course). Using the USB cable or Bluetooth connection, the REDFLY “extends” your Windows Mobile interface to the larger notebook platform – providing a bigger display and keyboard than what a smartphone would provide.

The company has two new models of the REDFLY – there’s the Model C7 and the Model C8N. Here are the general specs:

Model C7:

• 7 inch 800 x 480 display
• VGA out
• 5 hour 2000 mAh battery
• 1.46 lbs
• 2 USB ports
• MSRP of $229

Model C8N:

• 8 inch 800 x 480 display
• VGA out
• 8 hour 4500 mAh battery
• 2 lbs
• 2 USB ports
• Media port (NTSC/PAL video in with optional cable)
• MSRP of $299

Does the REDFLY make sense for consumers? probably not since full featured netbook systems are nearly as cheap as the 8 inch C8N. However for business users with Windows Mobile smartphones and high speed mobile broadband plans, the REDFLY just might make sense – since you have effectively a single platform for checking email, reading attachments, surfing the web etc.

[Check it out via PC World]