Being a young player on the Pocket PC market Dell successfully debuted with its Axim X5. In 2002 the company tried hard to find an OEM provider that could manufacture handhelds with the minimum margin so that the final consumer would buy the handheld for less than $300. The process was followed by Dell’s respective allegations. At that time other PDA makers kept on releasing handhelds for an average retail price of $600 ignoring Dell’s attempts that almost failed then. But at last Dell succeeded to find the provider and introduced the Axim X5 for less than $300 (in two modifications) as it had promised. From time to time Americans could buy the junior model for less than $200 with all rebates. Sure the model generated unprecedented public excitement due to its dumping price. Other market participants responded to Dell 4-5 months later releasing low-end handhelds priced at $300. As there was no timely reaction Dell managed good sales by the end of 2003. Despite the fact that the Axim X5 features a heavy size, large dimensions and lacks wireless adapters it became a mass model. In many respects we should be grateful to Dell for a dramatic price fall for Pocket PC.



Link: Mobile Review