Handheld computing just got extreme--Cybiko Inc. X-treme 2, that is. The updated PDA, geared toward teens, was being previewed at the Electronic Entertainment Expo (E3) held in California last week.

Thinner, slicker, and more powerful than its predecessor, the CyX2 aims to become the handheld of choice for young gadgetheads. It is scheduled to hit US stores by September priced at $US150.

The new edition features a faster processor, more onboard memory (2.5MB), an updated operating system, and a new keypad design with a pager-size QWERTY keyboard. Although the CyX2's keys are tiny, they're an improvement over the even smaller keys of the previous edition. The keys on the older model are so teeny, in fact, that you'd be better off using the included stylus to press them.

Still, the small keyboard comes in handy when you want to write e-mail messages. The CyX2, like the original, lets you send and receive e-mail through its radio frequency transmitter. Even more crowd-pleasing is its ability to run multiplayer games, allowing you to play games with your Cybiko-touting buddies over a wireless connection.

Entertainment Is Key

Two of its most appealing, teen-approved features are gaming and chat. You can download games from Cybiko's Web site and play wirelessly with other Cybiko users. It also has a chat feature so you can constantly stay in touch with your friends.

Music fanatics will like the CyX2's optional, $US60 MP3 expansion module. You can even use the CyX2 as a walkie-talkie--to communicate with other Cybiko users, of course.

As far as looks are concerned, the CyX2 is noticeably thinner than the original, with a silver case design. You can buy optional faceplates that come in Crayola colors and animal pattern designs.

On the practical side, the CyX2, like the original, has a slew of useful, school-oriented features, including an address book, dictionary, scientific calculator, spell checker, and language translator.

The company plans to expand its X-generation content for the CyX2 by joining forces with music companies and entertainment news providers.