InfoWorld examines a new alternative handheld operating system called Penbex by Taiwan's Penbex Data Systems.

MaGlobe is now offering worldwide Internet access services for Palm OS users via a new AutoDialer. Palm International is also a good site for overseas resources, and the US Department of Commerce, Tourism Industries Office has published a potentially interesting new report on outbound travel projections that could have an impact on services like MaGlobe.

Palm has announced a new Secure Digital Input/Output (SDIO) card that will offer Palm m500/m505 devices Bluetooth wireless capabilities. One of the key expected new features for this card is the ability to provide Personal Area Networking (PAN) services to mobile users. The software/hardware for this product enhancement will be available by the end of 2001 and is expected to cost US$150.

CNET has an interesting article about IBM's PowerPC processor plans -- more performance with less power needs.

Handspring has announced a new trade-up program that can reduce the cost of purchasing a new Visor Edge by US$100. Current Handspring owners can qualify for the same discount by "passing along" their older Visor to a friend or family member. The program starts on June 8 and goes through July 1, 2001.

TealPoint Software has announced a new Palm OS focused electronic magazine called @Teal that will be published on a bimonthly schedule. Each issue will be filled with: news, tips, regular columns, and reader feedback.

-Steve Holden (sholden@pencomputing.com)