Gizmondo Plans for Widescreen Version Of Handheld

Officials from Gizmondo Europe, a subsidiary of Florida-based Tiger Telematics, have confirmed that a new widescreen model of the Gizmondo portable console is currently being planned for release. The new version of the console, logically named the Gizmondo Widescreen, is described as forming part of a wider plan to release a number of different devices, all with multiple functions, such as the abiity to play games, music, and movies, send and receieve text messages, take pictures, and use GPS technology. The new widescreen console is planned for the second quarter of 2006, and is intended to complement the soon-to-debut original Gizmondo in North America, according to the firm. The widescreen console has a larger 4-inch display, and processor power “above 500MHz,” according to the company, with an unspecified amount of memory. The console will also feature support for Wi-Fi (WLAN 802.11b/g), Bluetooth 2, and tri-band GSM technology. Carl Freer, co-founder and chair of Tiger Telematics, said, "The convergence technology category is similar to that of cell phones where a one-size-fits all approach does not work. Our long-term objective is to provide a range of entertainment and messaging devices that cater to different entertainment desires. Widescreen will favorably compare to Sony PSP but with even more power and features. Also, ensuring backwards compatibility and a clear upgrade path for future models is an integral part of our multi-product roadmap. A personal favorite feature is the TV/video out connection which will enable you to play your favorite games on your TV, using the Gizmondo Widescreen like a console joypad." The new widescreen model will be unveiled at January 2006's Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas. The announcement of the new model has been met with surprise in most quarters, with the original version of the console meeting with no discernable sales success in Europe, although the company was recently able to raise additional capital and settle one of its outstanding lawsuits.