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Japan

Building remote file access into futuristic handset

TOKYO - Sony Computer Science Laboratories Inc has developed a futuristic handset that combines the functions of a mobile phone with an easy interface for remote access to computer files.

Designed to take advantage of an always-on Internet connection, the interface provides an easy way for even personal-computer neophytes to virtually transfer picture, music and text files so they can be viewed from computers outside the home or office.

The handset is smaller than a cellular phone and uses IP (Internet Protocol) for conversations. It also has the ability to interact with a PC via a wireless or infrared connection.

When the handset is placed near a PC, software built into the handset interacts with the computer to browse information stored on it and display a list of files that can be transferred.

The user simply looks at the handset screen and selects which files to transfer. The handset does not store the actual files. Instead, it stores "address information" about where the files are located in the PC.

Once this information has been saved, the user can make the handset interact with any other PC, directing the computer to connect via the Internet to the first PC and download the files from the specified addresses.

(Asia Pulse/Nikkei)

Dec 6, 2003

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