Glenayre Technologies Inc.’s Wireless Access Group introduced its next-generation interactive two-way messaging device, called the AccessLink II.
Based on Motorola Inc.’s ReFLEX two-way paging protocol, the AccessLink II is an evolution from the original AccessLink-the first two-way interactive device on the market. In particular, it is the size of a traditional alphanumeric pager, has three times the memory, a 30-day battery life and an infrared communications port.
The AccessLink II also boasts the same functionality of the original version, such as message origination and custom reply, sending and receiving e-mail messages and the same folder-based user interface. It is powered by a single AA alkaline battery.
The device features the same “virtual keyboard” as the original model. Rather than a Qwerty keyboard, the AccessLink II has a thumb pad used to scroll through a keypad on the screen and select letters or options, which Wireless Access touts as easier for one-handed operation.
Its competitor, Motorola’s PageWriter 2000, features a Qwerty keyboard. Analysts are divided on which device makes it is easier to originate messages.
Gary Hermansen, vice president of sales and marketing at Wireless Access, argues that only 10 percent of users originate long messages from two-way devices, and as such it is not worth increasing the size of the device to accommodate a full Qwerty keyboard.
“The AccessLink II demonstrates our commitment to providing the marketplace with a two-way messaging device that answers the industry’s demand of small size, longer battery life and greater functionality,” he said. “The AccessLink II is the smallest two-way pager in the industry and users will be thrilled with the interactive messaging capability in the smallest form factor available on the market.”
The infrared port allows users to download new applications, features and other information via a short burst “beam” between the device and a computer. For instance, should Wireless Access create an upgrade, users could access the company’s Web site, download the upgraded software, and then send that data to the pager without needing to attach a cable between serial ports of the two devices.
Now in testing, Wireless Access said the pager will be available through SkyTel Communications Inc. and its resellers in the third quarter. The company said to expect a new version of its AccessMate guaranteed messaging pager in the near future as well.
