LeapFrog hopes 'pentop computer' will fly

LeapFrog Enterprises has created a "pentop computer," a talking, computerized pen that can translate words into other languages, or help with math and spelling homework.

LeapFrog, announcing the launch Wednesday, said the Fly device will give children audio feedback as they write and draw on special Fly paper.

For instance, the company said, someone can draw a calculator, touch the handwritten digits and functions to perform an operation, and then hear the answers announced.

A group of children aged 8 to 13 helped to develop the product, LeapFrog said. The company will offer a range of applications for learning, communicating and playing.

Emeryville, Calif.-based LeapFrog has been plagued by weak sales and earnings misses, and recently said it relied too heavily on its LeapPad business.

The past year has hurt investor confidence in the company, and it has made sweeping changes to its management team.

LeapFrog had been a Wall Street star after its 2002 initial public offering, but a string of dismal reports from the company hurt its credibility with investors, and its shares have taken a beating since October.

LeapPad is a junior-sized laptop system that holds interactive workbooks that teach skills like reading and math. The company makes educational toys for children from infants to high school students, but its focus has been on younger children. The company has said it wants to expand its product lines for older children and develop learning aids for adults.

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