Posts by pdtpoet

Cosmo Communicator: More phone than the Gemini, more pocket computer than phone

Happy Gemini Android user, now a happier Cosmo user!

I missed my Psion Mx 5 series terribly. The Gemini allowed me to once again access that wonderful keyboard (on a device smaller than the Psion) and with a very nice screen. No other instrument that small has allowed me the productivity the Gemini has. The only drawbacks were that the processor was a bit slow and that the keyboard was not backlit. Planet asked all of us backers what we would like to see on the Cosmo, and all 3 lead needs, a front screen, a usable camera, and a backlit keyboard (as well as a faster processor and Android 9) are included in the Cosmo.

I have now used the Cosmo as a productivity device (and backup phone) and the backlit keyboard is wonderful so that I can type now in complete darkness - a boon on planes and in dark lecture halls. I have not used the 24-MP camera yet. The faster processor is great. Planet is paying attention and have already flashed 2 firmware updates for managing the front display optimally. I think they have the potential to be a niche company in the phone/computer world if more people who miss their Psion just buy the device. It is a wonderful culmination of the Phone/PDA hybrid vision.

Is this a wind-up? Planet Computers boss calls time on ZX Spectrum reboot firm

Satisfied Gemini User

I want to double down on the excellence of Planet Computers in its support of the Gemini PDA. I am one of the original backers, received a Gemini as promised and have installed all updates. Planet computers has been responsive to us users.

I have ordered my Cosmo Communicator as it has a lighted keyboard unlike the Gemini and this will allow me to easily continue to take notes in darkened lecture and meeting halls.

Pdtpoet

The Gemini pocket PC is shipping and we've got one. This is what it's like

Not a geek - but a "real world" heavy Psion user's feelings

My heart skipped a beat when I saw the Gemini PDA and, in one review, placing it side by side with the legendary and much-missed Psion 5mx. I am an American and a Psion user since 1993...buying each iteration of the diminutive "palmtop" since it was launched. As a physician-scientist and developer of new medications, I would take my Psion 5mx to FDA meetings and type over a dozen pages on the word processor, which seamlessly downloaded into the Psion link on my PC to produce a format-identical Word file. The same was true of Excel files. Another wonderful aspect of the Psion 5mx was its power source - two AA batteries which lasted about a week with the lcd monochrome screen - and so a battery switch was virtually instantaneous without waiting for a "charge." And the backup battery held the data, but it also took CE cards for storage.

When the Psion 5mx was no longer supported by Psion, I bought two on eBay just in case mine became damaged or broken. There has never been a device before or since which allowed such productivity in such a small package. In my search for replacements i purchased the UMID "mbook" m1 which was about as big as a Psion, had a color screen and ran Windows XP. if only the keys had been a bit bigger it would have been a good substitute, but it wasn't at all and I bricked it.

Needless to say, with tears of joy in my eyes I have just ordered the Gemini PDA (wi-fi verson), the leather case and connection hub, and am eagerly awaiting my device. And I am practicing typing on my Psion 5mx until the Gemini arrives!