MotionApps Classic Palm OS Emulator Gets HotSync Support

[Ed Hardy]

MotionApps has just released a new version of its Palm OS emulator for the Palm Pre that brings HotSync support to this webOS-based device. Other enhancements are also included.

With HotSync, users are able to  synchronize contacts, calendar, notes, tasks and other PIM data between the Pre and desktop computer.

It also supports custom conduits and desktop applications that sync their data between desktop and phone through HotSync.

Other changes in Classic 2.0 include full screen mode, quick keyboard mode switch, improved reset functionality, reduced power consumption when idle and more.

In addition, it comes pre-loaded with a bundle of free Palm OS applications.

The complete list of v2.0 features and improvements is available on the MotionApps website.

Pricing & Availability

This application is available now for $29.99. A free demo can be found in the on-device App Catalog.

Source: MotionApps

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[ward.smith]

Good news for all of those folks who value syncing to their computer. It will be interesting to see how it works with a variety of custom conduits such as FileMaker Mobile and Splash Data.

[r0k]

Hmmmm... The Pre claws its way higher on my list. I have quite a few old PalmOS apps lying around that I wouldn't mind having access to again.

[Ed Hardy]

I've been wondering if the improvements in Classic would bring more die-hard Palm OS fans over to the Pre. It sounds like it's making at least one of you think about it.

-

[Hook]

Originally Posted by Ed Hardy

I've been wondering if the improvements in Classic would bring more die-hard Palm OS fans over to the Pre. It sounds like it's making at least one of you think about it.

-

If they made a non-cell version it might. A dataplan contract is a poor trade-off for access to a emulator to run your old software that will probably not be supported much at all in another year or two.

And what does it say that one of the big attractions for a device representing Palm's future is an emulator f their old, dead OS?

I think it comes down to, if WebOS serves your needs, Classic is a nice thing to have, but I don't think it is in and of itself a reason to get a Pre.

[JRakes]

I would have to agree with that, Hook. The Classic emulator would be more of a "nice to have" additional feature for a device which, in and of itself, suits one's needs and justifies itself. It's certainly not a "bad" thing, but it wouldn't sway me in the least toward a Pre, as the basic concept of WebOS (being so web-centric for basic functionality) simply doesn't suit my needs.

That said, the addition of sync capability with Classic is a positive step, IMHO, adding value to Classic as an "app."

[Girt]

Originally Posted by Hook

If they made a non-cell version it might. A dataplan contract is a poor trade-off for access to a emulator to run your old software that will probably not be supported much at all in another year or two.

And what does it say that one of the big attractions for a device representing Palm's future is an emulator f their old, dead OS?

I think it comes down to, if WebOS serves your needs, Classic is a nice thing to have, but I don't think it is in and of itself a reason to get a Pre.

Ed, more than one of us is re-thinking.
Hook, for once I'd have to totally disagree.
P1 - "not supported" - with the mature apps from 10+ years of Palm, I don't want further upgrades for many of my apps.
P2 - it says that there are still some huge app-gaps in ALL the new OS's out there. Datebk5/6 of course being near the top of the list.
P3 - true. Stick with a Treo or TX otherwise. Buy a backup or two off eBay. Could last quite a while... I'm considering it. NOT because I can't change, but because the Treo really works well for me, has the mature apps, etc etc.
I'd also add the factor of a couple hundred bucks in great apps that still have no replacement. I'd gladly spend another $30 to save $200-300, getting the best of the old and enjoying multitasking , wifi, etc.

That said, I do agree that it will (hopefully!) be no more than covering a transition. Use Garnet apps until the Pre apps can replace it. Let's see - iPhone, wild, rapid development, still no calendar app after 2 years. So, yes, I see a very valid place for this emulator.

MY problem is I don't want to pay for the Data plan!

[ward.smith]

As a devout syncer, this definitely puts this phone on my radar. My Centro will not last forever and it looks like the things that I value most I will be able to do on a Pre and with a better web experience, multi-tasking, and a bigger and better screen. Increase the memory to at least 16 GB and or put a sd slot in it and it would be my next phone.

[MotionApps Classic]

Hi guys and thanks for commenting – this kind of discussion is really valuable to us.

We do come from Girt’s perspective, so yes, the mature apps are one thing, the fact that some apps (or functionalities) cannot be developed for webOS is another, and saving the investment is also a valid point.

But to take a step further, we want to establish Classic as a platform, which could be attractive to the users who never actually used Palm OS devices, or to developers who love the “freedom” of development for Palm OS. The bottom line is, the “transitional tool approach” justifies Classic, but we think there is much more to it.

What’s your take on this?

[Hook]

Originally Posted by Girt

MY problem is I don't want to pay for the Data plan!

Reread my post-- this was my point exactly. Everything else was driven by that point.

It would be very nice if they released a cell-less version or even a GSM unlocked.