I'm writing this from the Palm (PALM) announcement of its new phone. Think Palm Tree but different - it's called Palm Pre.
Unlike Apple's (AAPL) iPhone, you can remove the back and replace the battery. This is being referred to as Palm's "Hail Mary pass" to get back in the game as it tries to compete with the likes of Apple and Research In Motion (RIMM).
It's not just the new phone, it's the operating system (called NOVA) that goes along with it. This system has been delayed a number of times, and many analysts are skeptical about its ability to compete with AAPL and RIMM.At the presentation here in the Venetian, Palm CEO Ed Colligan and other company officials have been stressing synergy. For example, if you're instant messaging a friend and want to turn that I'm into a text, it's easy to do from one screen.
It has a slide-out real keyboard, not just virtual--clearly aimed at the happy medium for Blackberry and iPhone enthusiasts. It's smaller than other smart-phones although it looks a little thicker.
All of these innovations are getting a lot of reaction here in the room, but it's way too early to call the Pre the next big thing.
Check out my interview with Palm CEO Ed Colligan tomorrow at 6:40am Eastern time on FOX Business Network.
