OQO readies its Model 1 uPC

So is it worth the wait?

Possibly, but it's hard to imagine the Model 1 succeeding in all of the niches that OQO has identified. While it looks like it might be ideal for custom vertical applications, I don't see it winning big with executives as a notebook replacement. This is especially true since OQO decided to stick with Transmeta's aging Crusoe 5800 processor instead of launching with their new higher performance Efficeon processor. Additionally a device designed to be carried in your jacket pocket and used anywhere needs network access that works anywhere.

Ironically the Model 1's diminutive PDA-like size leads you to expect that it will work like a 3G-PDA instead of like the ultra small notebook PC that it really is. It's just too much of a compromise coming from the full featured desktop PC that these executives' notebooks already have replaced.

But even with all that said, if none of these issues are show stoppers on your personal evaluation list, there's not much that could be done to stop you from running out and buying one of these things the moment that its available. Even if you think it's not practical you can't deny that it's just plain old cool!

OQO is planning on a limited release in June (to corporate customers) and a general release in September. If you'd like to be one of the lucky ones to participate in a corporate pilot, OQO has a signup form on their website for just that purpose (http://www.oqo.com/enterprise/corpsales/).

Dave Weinstein is Gizmo's Editor-at-Large in the United States. If you'd like to comment on this article or have products that you'd like Dave to look into, feel free to e-mail him at daveknows@gizmag.com.