Dell expanded its handheld product offerings by introducing the three-member Axim X3 family, PDAs that include the Axim X3i, a $379 model with integrated wireless capability.

The Axim X3 is 28% lighter at 3 ounces than its predecessor, and at 0.55 inches, 17% thinner. The Axim X3 delivers bright color displays, removable primary batteries, SD I/O, consumer infrared and optional built-in wireless networking. It is available in three configurations: the Axim X3i with integrated WiFi 802.11b for $379, and two non-wireless Axim X3 configurations for $229 and $329.

Dell will continue to offer Axim X5, which has elevated Dell to the Number Two Pocket PC handheld device supplier both worldwide and in the USA in less than a year (IDC WW Smart Handheld Device Mobile Devices Quarterly Market Share for Q2 2003).

The Axim X3 handhelds come with Microsoft’s Windows Mobile 2003 software for Pocket PC, and pocket versions of Microsoft Outlook, Word and Excel, Internet Explorer, MSN Messenger and Windows Media Player. The Axim X3 will also come with one year advanced exchange service standard.

Both the $379 and $329 configurations are powered by the Intel XScale processor at 400MHz, and offer 64MB of SDRAM and 64MB of Intel StrataFlash ROM. The built-in Secure Digital IO slot can host a number of devices. A 3.5” transflective TFT color display is standard on all Axim X3 configurations, with 240x320 (QVGA) resolution. The unit’s sync/recharge cradle – standard on $329 and $379 configurations – has an extra battery charge slot that accommodates either a spare standard battery (950mAh) or the available high-capacity (1800mAh) battery.

Users also can opt for the Axim X3's $229 configuration, which has an Intel XScale 300MHz processor, 32MB of SDRAM, 32MB of Flash ROM and a USB sync cable instead of a cradle, in addition to all the other features of the $329 unit. All Axim X3 units will be offered with a wide - variety of accessories, such as folding keyboards and leather carrying case.

Technical Features of the new Axim products include:

• Microsoft Windows Mobile 2003 software for Pocket PC, including Pocket versions of Microsoft Outlook, Word and Excel, Internet Explorer, MSN Messenger, Windows Media Player and other software;
• Intel XScale Processor at 400MHz or 300MHz;
• 3.5” TFT 240x320 QVGA 65K Color Transflective LCD;
• 64MB SDRAM or 32MB SDRAM;
• 64MB or 32MB Intel StrataFlash  ROM;
• 1 Secure Digital (SD) IO Slot;
• Consumer IrDA port;
• 950mAh Li-Ion Removable Battery with integrated rechargeable Backup Battery;
• Optional 1800mAh Li-Ion High Capacity Battery;
• Built-in Microphone & Speaker;
• Backlit Power Button / Indicator Light;
• Optional integrated Wi-Fi 802.11b capability
• Weight: Axim X3i w/ standard battery: 140.4g (5 oz); Axim X3 w/standard battery: 136.5g (4.8 oz);
• Dimensions: Axim X3i: 122.4 x 14.9 x 77.2mm (4.82" x 0.6" x 3"); Axim X3: 117 x 14.9 x 77.2mm (4.6" x 0.6" x 3")
• Power Button, 4 Application Keys, 5-way Navigator Button, Scroll Dial, Wireless On/Off Button, Record Button, Headphone mini-jack;
• USB Cradle with 2nd primary battery charging slot;
• Ships standard with Cradle or Synch Cable, AC Adapter & Power Cord, Protective Jacket, System Documentation & Companion CD.

As you can see, Dell Axim X3 offers quite a lot of features for a very competitive price.