Pepper Pad 3 Handheld Web Computer

The Pepper Pad 3 is a handheld computer that allows you to surf the net, e-mail and message friends (AOL Messenger only), download music, stream audio or video, keep a journal, and control your TV. It is the newest creation from the American company Pepper Computer Inc. The Pepper Pad has a 20GB hard drive, 256MB of RAM, a 7″ touch screen display, and supports Wi-Fi, IR, and Bluetooth networks. It is powered by a rechargeable Lithium battery which Pepper claims can last over 3.5 hours. However, a recent review demonstrated the battery life to be closer to 2 hours and forty minutes with normal use. Although the company is American the Pepper Pad 3 is being manufactured right here in Suwon, South Korea by the Hanbit Electronics Co. The Pepper Pad 3 is currently available for $699 USD (W657,000 KRW).
One of the more interesting features of the Pepper Pad is its Linux operating system dubbed the Pepper Platform. The Platform is fully hackable and users are encouraged to modify and experiment with their Pepper device. Many of the hacks are easy to execute and posted online.
The Pepper Pad 3 at KES had limited functionality. The sales reps were having difficulties getting the Wi-Fi to work, and their lack of English was surprising considering the Pepper Pads roots.
Using the Pad was not very enjoyable. The design and keyboard felt awkward, but the touch screen and scroll wheel made navigating the device simple. The Pepper Pad 3 seems to be a good fit with a home entertainment center. You can control your home electronics using the pad as a remote. This feature combined with the ability to surf/chat online reminded me of the Who Wants to Be A Millionaire episodes where they encouraged the viewers to vote and play along online. I always felt left out not being able to play along, but no more. The Pepper Pad seems like it would be a great device to use while watching TV. The Pepper Pad is a very interesting device but for the high price I would look into getting a UMPC with more functions like the Samsung Q1.