The Palm Foleo was probably the worst product non-launch in recent memory. Announced in May, Palm canned the laptop-sized "smartphone companion" in September before it had a chance to hit store shelves. Looks like Celio didn't learn anything from Palm's mistake, because it is launching its own version of the Foleo for Windows Mobile smartphones called the Redfly.Redfly is a slightly better name, I'll give it that. Otherwise, what the heck is Celio thinking? The Redfly Mobile Companion is nearly identical to the Foleo at first glance. It gives Windows Mobile 5 and 6 users a chance to interact with their smartphones with a larger screen and full-sized keyboard. You can connect via USB or Bluetooth, and the Redfly will last for 8 hours on a charge. It also will power your smartphone. The bad news is it costs $499, same as the Foleo. And it weighs in a 1.9 pounds. Not exactly a featherweight for an add-on product, though it is less than most standard laptops.

Says Redfly:

The Redfly Smartphone Interface System...wirelessly extends the smartphone to a larger display, full keyboard, mouse, and USB ports. Any application on the smartphone is shown instantly on the new display without modification or synchronization. Available for fast-track implementation, smartphones can connect to a Redfly-enabled mobile companion device, desktop station, public display, or conference room projector for easy access to e-mail, attachments, Web browsing, and business applications. Because the Redfly settings and all data remains on the smartphone, displays can be shared amongst users without risk of data loss or security breach.

The Redfly does have an advantage over the Foleo, though, that just might allow it to succeed where the Foleo failed. The Foleo was compatible only with Palm's Treo line of smartphones. The Redfly is compatible with all Windows Mobile 5 and 6 smartphones. That's a heck of a lot more devices than just the Treos. HTC alone has dozens of models that would be compatible with the Redfly.

For the road warrior who only needs to check in with e-mails and browse the Web while on the road, something like the Redfly has potential. Many complain that smartphones' cramped keyboards and small screens limit their usability. Celio thinks the Redfly can solve that problem by providing a more computer-like experience.

I am dubious, though. I still think that $500 could be better spent. Web and e-mail access are certainly critical, but I often use other applications -- even when out of the office for just an afternoon -- that necessitate having a full computer with me at all times.

The Redfly will be available directly from Celio in March.