Handspring has officially introduced the next generation version of the popular Treo Communicator - the Treo 600. This is a completely new device with significant changes over the current crop of Treos. Here are some of the features that will be part of the Treo 600:

• 144Mhz ARM Processor
• 32MB RAM (22MB - 25MB available to user)
• Palm OS Version 5
• Backlit fully integrated QWERTY/numeric keyboard
• 5-way navigation pad (no jog wheel)
• 160x160 color display (CSTN)
• VGA 640x480 camera (1/3 megapixel)
• SD/SDIO/MMC expansion slot
• Smaller form factor (4.41" x 2.26" x 0.87")
• ~6.0 ounces
• 5/6 hour talk time (CDMA/GSM)
• 1800 mAh internal battery, 1200 mAh extended/clip-on battery
• Improved audio (front and rear speakers)
• MP3 playback capabilities (will require 3rd party software)
• CDMA dual band version (800mhz CDMA/ 1900mhz PCS CDMA)
• GSM/GPRS quad band version

The new keyboard features unique dome shape keys that early users report are easy to type with. The device will feature a KeyGuard application to prevent unwanted key presses when carrying the device (no flip lid on the 600). There is also a new 5-way navigation pad that is tightly integrated into the core software. So, it is possible to do many things without a stylus. The screen is also a touchscreen.

The 600's display is full color, but only 160 x 160 resolution. This appears to be one of the few negatives in this new device. But, the lower resolution will reportedly help provide much bettery battery life. This display is very bright, both indoors and outdoors. The new camera is tightly integrated into the 600's include software. This allows you to easily take a picture and direct it to a photo album, messaging, picture caller ID, or the main 600 background. The camera doesn't appear to have a cover and video conferencing is not supported out of the box.

There is no built-in Bluetooth support in the 600, but with the SDIO slot, this should be doable. The slot is on the top of the 600, making it easy to use for this purpose, and Handspring is working with vendors to develop the needed drivers to support headsets. One move that I wish more manufacturers would follow... Handspring has kept the same data connector that all Treo's so far share. They claim that all existing cables and chargers will be compatible.

Oher miscellaneous features include a proxy-less Blazer web browser with support for frames, Javascript, and by default, secure access to corporate intranets. MP3/WAV ringtones are not supported out of the box. However, the new Blazer browser will be able to download MIDI files and install them on the spot for ringtone use. At launch, Handspring will be offering an accessory to convert the 2.5 mm jack into a standard 3.5 mm stereo headset jack. Handspring will not sell the Treo 600 directly to customers but instead will leave that up to the carriers. There will be a compelling trade-up incentive, however, for current Treo owners.

Handspring is actively working with Orange in Europe, and Sprint in the US to bring the 600 to market in the fall. The device will not be an exclusive Sprint (CDMA) device, so it would be possible for Verizon to offer it in the future (no word that they are). Handspring will offer a non carrier subsidized GSM version as well. Handspring expects the device to sell for $400 - $500. This pdaPhone looks like a winner.

Read the source article at Treocentral.com

Two different videos of the Treo 600 are available at CNet and Handspring