Sony's Wireless Handheld: Mylo

An iPod killer, it is not, but Sony's Mylo (which stands for "my life online") media player looks like it will generate some buzz in coming months leading towards Christmas. Gizmodo has already posted a mini-review of the Wi-Fi handheld, which is looking pretty sweet, since it's also a Skype phone. The device also plays MPEG-4 movies, music files (MP3, ATRAC or WMA), and stores photos that can be viewed in slideshows. The Mylo will be great for surfing the web, obviously, since it has a full, slide-out QWERTY keyboard to chat away on Google Talk or Yahoo! Messenger.

Gizmodo says it has an Opera browser, so I'm not sure if this can be changed to a browser we're more familiar with. It appears the hot new feature in future players is the ability to wirelessly stream music to other players, which this device will also do. It'll be available with 1GB of memory that can be increased with a Memory Stick Pro Duo.

The device targets the young, hip crowd that wants to be constantly connected to the Internet to check web-based email, text message, read news, and make VoIP calls. The best part is that it doesn't require cellular service to work, therefore there is no additional monthly charge.

The downside to the device is just that. You do need an Wi-Fi connection in order to use it, and although you can find one almost anywhere, Wi-Fi has yet to reach the streets. Maybe the Mylo will be more compelling once Wi-Fi goes outside cafes and airports. It would've also been a great idea to include a digital camera, in my opinion.

Expect the Mylo to hit Sony Style stores next month and retail for $350. (The price is another downside.)

What do you think? The concept is pretty cool, but will the Sony Mylo make it to your Christmas list this year?