Psion puts computing at hand

Two new handheld devices were unveiled by Psion, upping the ante for features in the handheld computer market.

The Siena organizer comes with either 512K or 1MB RAM and has a word processor, database, agenda, and a spreadsheet that are compatible with other vendors' applications, such as Microsoft and Lotus, built in. An agenda synchronizer that coordinates information between contact managers on a desktop computer and the Siena via an infrared connection is available as well.

The Psion Series 3c was also introduced today, filling out the Series 3 line of palmtop computers. The new model comes with 2MB of RAM and RS-232 serial connection. An optional PC card adapter will be available later this fall.

New features for the applications include new sorting and listing capabilities for the database, editing for the digital voice recording feature, and a new file manager. The company says that email and Web browser software will be available later this fall.

Data can be transferred to a desktop PC with the PsiWin PC connectivity software, to be made available in October.

Psion says that the Siena 512K will retail for $249 and the 1MB model will retail for $299. The Series 3c, available in October, will retail for $599.