The same handheld GPS reader that last year could determine your position within about 300 feet is now accurate to within about 50 or 60 feet.

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Now we've seen attempts to give Palm-based handhelds GPS capability before and none of them have come remotely close to the capability of a dedicated handheld GPS reader like those that companies like Garmin, Magellan and a few others make, which are typically geared toward outdoor enthusiasts.

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What's more, Franklin Electronics is soon to launch a handheld gadget that combines Microsoft Reader with the ability to play audio books and MP3 music.

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Prior to ending development last year, the company offered its Microsoft Reader software for about a decade -- first on handheld devices using Windows CE and Windows Mobile and later on desktop Windows.

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About a third would be at least somewhat likely to take library classes on how to download e-books onto handheld devices (including smartphones), or classes on how to use an e-reader or tablet computer.

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Hewlett-Packard's new Jornada 720 uses the Handheld PC 2000 software bundle and is the first of the new devices to include a card reader.

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