You know how Archos execs feel when they take a look at the iPhone, right? They see a small screen with a smaller capacity that their 7-inch, Archos 705 WiFi 160 GB player and know they could compete on a multimedia level . . . if only it had 3G, a better OS, a more intuitive UI, and oh yeah, a phone app.
The new media players announced today demonstrate that Archos might be heading in that direction.
The hardware updates are significant: The new Archos 5, Archos 7, and Archos 5G players will include an ARM Cortex processor, and 3G and 3.5 HSDPA connectivity. This means that, in theory, the 3G would be able to make a VOIP call on the fly, at the same time as a regular iPhone call. However, none of them come with an internal mic. So that's probably a lost opportunity.
The difference between the 5G player and the rest is that it comes with a built-in SIM slot and doesn't need a 3G modem.
Aesthetically, the new look is a big plus. The Archos 5 (below) comes with a large screen at 4.8" across, and it's more elegant and glossier than the previous matte-style. The Archos 7 will come with a 7" screen.
Like earlier models, these players are compatible with a wide range of movie and music file formats, as well as a touch-screen, and a DVR.
Archos will release the Archos 5 in September, the Archos 7 in October (for up to $550 for 320GB), and the Archos 5G in December for $550 (30GB).
