Once you've selected one of the picture buttons from your wallet, on-screen icons allow you to scroll through all of the images in the wallet. Nice.

But they didn't stop there. You can also link an audio file to any picture. Then, when the picture's displayed, the audio file plays automatically.

HTML
This button provides a means of storing and displaying HTML files, as shown in Figure F. The sample HTML file, while a simple advert, highlights the functionality of this feature. Again, I can see a salesperson making good use of this feature, creating mini data sheets and sales materials. I didn't test this feature out other than to view the sample page, but I'd suspect that it's not a practical means of carrying around your favorite Web site. It should work fine with simple, specialized projects though.

FIGURE F


Now you can carry HTML files in your wallet. Roll over picture for a larger image.

Application
This is a clever feature that allows you to launch your applications from within MediaWallet. Like an Internet portal, MediaWallet wants to be your starting point. In addition to linking to your application, MediaWallet loads itself (using the icon) into the system tray so that you can return to MediaWallet with the tap of that icon.

This button's used to create a back button. The back button allows you to move back to the previous wallet.

A billfold full of extras
MediaWallet's been designed with functionality in mind. The programmer worked hard to expand the virtual wallet concept. In doing so, MediaWallet is brimming with features. In fact, MediaWallet even allows you to task switch and to close running applications. You might even be tempted to assign MediaWallet to one of your program buttons and use the program as your management station for all of your Palm-sized PC's data.

Looking the gift horse in the mouth
So what's missing? Not a lot, as this application fulfilled and surpassed my expectations. Does that mean I'm satisfied? I should be, but that's not how it works. I still want more. For starters, how about supporting MP3s and WMAs? And maybe the ability to add a sound track to your entire photo album, rather than having to link individual sound files. But why stop there? Why not allow you to link sound files to HTML files? It would make creating multimedia presentations would be a snap.

And then there's movie support. With a name like MediaWallet, it just begs for support for your video clips. Now that the Casio Digital Camera Card is available, making Palmtop videos (albeit small videos) is a reality, so this would be a welcome addition.

When the day is done, Applian has managed to expand the virtual wallet concept, making it a more integral part of your device management plan. It's a pleasure to use, and provides the flexibility and style of a very mature product. I highly recommend it.

Clifford Brooks can be reached via email at clifford_brooks@dl.com.