Microsoft has just released a Windows CE-based MS Audio 4.0 player, made by Casio, (at http://www.wired.com/news/news/business/story/19121.html). They're throwing their hat into the MP3/mobile audio ring and competing against the Diamond RIO. Although the introduction of a new audio format isn't always a good idea, the new format is half the size of MP3 files and offers more security for recording artists. Microsoft also recently invested $5 million into Audible, which further bolsters the Windows CE/audio connection. And as new Windows CE devices like the Casio E-100 offer powerful audio and video functions (including stereo headphone jacks), CE is poised to take the audio world by storm.

Personally, I've often wished for a way to get all these devices talking to each other, some way to eliminate the complexity and slowness of using them. And as a music-lover, moving towards 100% digital content is an exciting step.

With the new MS Audio 4.0 and UPnP initiative from Microsoft, this may all yet become a reality!

Craig is a consultant who has been using Palm devices since 1996. He is the author of over 150 articles on all facets of computing. Craig can be reached at Cbobchin@csi.com.