Smartparts partners with Microsoft for Wi-Fi frame

(Credit: Smartparts)

One of the things I like most about Smartparts is that the company designs its own frames start to finish. No off-the-shelf "we'll-take-that-one" kind of stuff. And its new 8-inch Wi-Fi frame, announced Tuesday, is no different.

(Credit: Smartparts)

While adding Wi-Fi to frames isn't new, the SPX8WF's 802.11 b/g wireless abilities are unique in that it uses a pre-assigned e-mail address that comes with the frame, allowing you or anyone else to send pictures directly to the frame. It's also one of the first Smartparts frames to integrate with Windows Live Photo Gallery. Smartparts claims connecting to a wireless network is a one-button process, too.

Having seen the frame in person, I can attest to the attractiveness of the dark-wood border that surrounds the 24-bit LCD, which has a resolution of 800x600. There are slots that support SD, MS, xD, MMC, and Compact Flash memory cards, as well as a USB port and 512MB of internal memory.

The frame has an MSRP of only $149.99 and will be available in November. And for those looking to really experience their digital pictures, a 32-inch wireless version--the SP3200WF will be available, too, though no price or launch date has been announced./p>