Finding points of interest also proved vexing at times. Gas stations are categorized as petrol stations, and POI listings don't include distance from your current location. Plus, you get only half a screen's worth of POIs; hiding the onscreen keyboard doesn't expand the list. You can tap a listing to get the address and the phone number or to show its location on the map, but the lack of distance information is irksome.
Once you've selected a destination, SmartST II routes you there with typical voice-guided, turn-by-turn instructions. The onscreen map display is commendable, with large street labels and an excellent 3D view. You're stuck, however, with a top-down 2D view while in moving-map mode--3D isn't available unless you select a destination.
Armed with a 300MHz Intel processor, the PiN garnered good performance results, holding its own among other midrange Pocket PCs. All applications responded fairly quickly, and it was a pleasant device to use overall. In CNET Labs' battery-drain tests, where we repeatedly played a video clip with the backlight set at medium, the PiN lasted 3.2 hours. Of course, you'll get more mileage out of the PDA with normal use since our tests are designed to zap power as quickly as possible. Plus, if you're really in a crunch, you can always use the included car charger to fuel up the PiN.
Perfomance analysis written by CNET Labs project leader Dong Van Ngo.
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