Handspring updates handheld Web browser

MOUNTAIN VIEW: Handspring Inc., the No. 2 maker of handheld computers, on

Monday introduced an updated version of its Web-browsing software, which boasts

improved speed and security features for performing online commerce

transactions.

Mountain View, California-based Handspring's Blazer 2.0 systems provide

Internet surfing capabilities to personal digital assistants (PDAs) powered by

Palm Inc.'s Palm OS operating system software. Handspring generates most of its

revenues from the sales of its PDAs and add-ons that, for example transform the

device into a mobile phone or MP3 player.

But earlier this month, Handspring introduced Treo, a family of handheld

computers with a built-in cellphone, highlighting its thrust toward mobile

communication devices and services aimed at the lucrative world of corporate

users.

Already, Handspring has licensed the Blazer's browser to several companies

for use in their mobile phones and devices, including Sprint PCS, OmniSky Corp.

and Intel Corp.'s Xircom. Handspring said Blazer 2.0 is available now for $19.95

for new users. Some users of earlier versions of Blazer will receive a free

upgrade. Blazer 2.0 will also be built into the Treo devices. Handspring's stock

fell 3 cents to $2.08 in midday trade on Monday on Nasdaq.

(C) Reuters limited.