| We, members of the worldwide PocketPC Community would like to inform you of our dissatisfaction with Hewlett-Packard's support of the product line known as Compaq/HP Wireless Pack for GSM/GPRS Networks (e.g.: P/N 219926-B21, 219927-B21) and respectfully request that Hewlett-Packard (HP) continue with the software and hardware support of this device under operating systems such as Pocket PC 2002, Pocket PC 2003 (Windows Mobile 2003) and future releases, as well as interoperability with the H3100, H3600, H3700, H3800, H3900, H5400 and H5500 series iPaq units. The Wireless Pack, which has been released worldwide with the exception of the United States, is a high priced commodity (ca. $500 USD) and thus represents a significant investment on the consumer's part. Promotional literature published by HP, and distributed as recently as 2003 promises support under Microsoft Windows for Pocket PC (2000) or higher (reference note 1 below), and references from your own support forums indicate acknowledgement and promised support of the H5400 family of iPaqs as recently as late 2003 (reference note 2 below). In reality within the past year (2003-2004), HP has shown a lack of commitment and continued support for this device and a lack of consistent information pertaining to the status of any work/deliverables scheduled for this product. In particular, we are extremely concerned that HP has not committed to operability of this device under the latest Pocket PC 2003 (Windows Mobile 2003) operating system (see note 3 below). We are frustrated and concerned about the viable future of this device, particularly since it has only been on the market for less than three years. As consumers, we work very hard for our money and choose to spend it on products from companies who deal with us in good faith, and commit to a reasonable product life expectancy. We look to the Decision Staff of the HP organization to demonstrate integrity and a willingness to stand behind your products and support your customers. We implore HP to address and resolve the issues listed in this petition, and to honor a reasonable life expectancy for such a valuable, and expensive accessory. Doing so will restore our confidence in HP as a provider of stable, sustainable, viable products and retain us as potential consumers of future products. Respectfully yours, The Undersigned. Notes: 1) Reference document DA-10903 - World Wide - Version 3 - September 17, 2003 (URL link: h18000.www1.hp.com/products/quickspecs/10903_div/10903_div.html) 2) At time of publishing, the editor does not have hardcopy documentation of these claims, however, several active HP sponsored forums contain discussions from users who have captured screen images of HP "propaganda" promising support of the H5450. The editor is sure that proof can be provided if requested. 3) Reference document MH030723_CW01, Revision 0, "iPAQ Wireless Pack for GSM/GPRS Networks Does Not Work with Microsoft Pocket PC 2003" |
| THE PETITION |
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