One of the things that’s missing on the Pepper Pad 3 is a 
VOIP and multi-protocol IM solution. It looks like at least part of that situation will change before mid 2007. Pepper Computer have just announced that Skype will be supported on the Pepper 3 hardware.
Its not clear if its just IM and VOIP or whether video will be included. Currently video is not supported under the Linux version of Skype. I’ll get the answer to that question as soon as I can.
Here’s the important part of the press release:
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Software Upgrade Brings Skype Support in mid-2007
LAS VEGAS –(Business Wire)– Jan. 10, 2007 Hanbit Electronics Co., Ltd. and Pepper Computer, Inc. today announce an upgrade to Pepper Linux that will offer Pepper Pad 3 users Skype support in mid-2007. Designed to be both maintenance-free and virus and spyware resistant, the integrated Pepper Pad 3 handheld Web computer allows users to browse the Web, e-mail and instant message, edit and share photos, download and stream music, and watch videos and more – right out of the box. The Pepper Pad 3 with Skype will be demonstrated at CES 2007, Sands Expo booth #69623.
“The introduction of the Pepper Pad 3 has been wildly successful and our customers are very excited about these new applications,” said Mark Phillips, Director of Business Development at Hanbit America. “The integration of Skype will provide customers with an even more complete experience when using their Pepper Pad 3.”
Skype will be available to all Pepper Pad 3 users through an automatic update in the first half of 2007. Skype customers will be able to travel anywhere in the world and make and receive Skype calls with their Pepper Pad 3.
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Steve
