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Treo shows new tricks

Ina Fried Former Staff writer, CNET News
During her years at CNET News, Ina Fried changed beats several times, changed genders once, and covered both of the Pirates of Silicon Valley.
Ina Fried

After proving itself as a capable work horse, the Treo was showing a bit more of its fun side at this week's CTIA cell phone industry trade show.

Palm's smart phone took center stage in several spots on the show floor. Over at the MobiTV booth, the Treo was seen playing live television, while Audible was showing the Treo downloading audiobooks over the air. The Treo has long been able to play Audible content, but being able to grab new books on the go is a new twist announced this week. Meanwhile, Speck Products, a company best known for its iPod cases, was showing off its line of Treo-wear, including leather cases and silicone skins.

InMotion's iMT1 speaker
Credit: Ina Fried
InMotion's iMT1 speaker

Finally, Altec Lansing debuted a fancy $179 speaker for the Treo. Slated to arrive in late November or early December, The iMT1 is similar to the company's iPod speakers. However, a built-in microphone gives the 1.5 pound unit an added use as a speakerphone. (it also works as a speaker for Palm's LifeDrive, Tungsten T5 and Tungsten E2 handhelds).

Of course, the Treo was also busy trying to polish its reputation as a business pro, with Palm announcing earlier in the week that a Windows Mobile-based Treo was on its way.