The service is aimed at devices using the Palm OS and Pocket PC platforms, the company said. The "new" services are based on technology and other assets acquired from bankrupt wireless ISP OmniSky.

Palm OS and users of HP Jornada devices, which are based on Pocket PC, can buy unlimited access for $39.95 a month. The cost for access using Compaq iPAQ Pocket PC handhelds is $59.95 per month.

Access requires use of a wireless modem such as the Sierra Wireless Aircard.

Besides wireless Web access and e-mail capabilities, the new service also includes new location-based, communication and convenience applications designed to "maximize the convenience and communications features on the popular Palm platform," EarthLink officials said.

A "People" feature includes instant messaging (IM), chat and collaboration tools, so that users can interact with other EarthLink Wireless subscribers. The People application is tightly integrated with the system's "Cities" feature, so that users can send meeting invitations to one another, complete with detailed, map-enhanced directions. The People feature also enables subscribers to share and collaborate in free-form drawings using a Doodle program. They can also play games online with one another, and even chat with one another while they play.

The new service works on Palm OS-based devices, including the Palm Vx (OS 3.5 and higher), the Palm m500 and m505 (OS 4.0 and higher), and HandSpring's Visor Edge, Pro, Prism, Platinum, and Neo (OS 3.5 or higher) models. EarthLink Wireless Email and Internet Service on the supported Palm OS devices is $39.95 per month for unlimited monthly access, or a $399.95 up-front fee for one full year of service.

On the Pocket PC side of the PDA aisle, EarthLink supports Pocket PC 2000 platform models, including Compaq's iPAQ H3600 series and HP Jornada 520 and 540 series devices. The company also has plans to launch a Pocket PC 2002 platform-supported interface within the next 45 days to 60 days.

HP Jornada owners can also purchase EarthLink Wireless Email and Internet Service for $39.95 per month (unlimited usage), or pre-pay $399.95 for a year of access. Owners of iPAQs can buy the stand-alone service for $59.95 per month (unlimited usage), or pre-pay $649.95 for a year of access.

Subscribers can also purchase through EarthLink the Novatel Minstrel wireless modems necessary for wireless access.

The EarthLink Wireless Email and Internet Service and modem equipment on select handheld devices can be purchased through The EarthLink Store.

Content from allNetDevices contributed to this article. Bob Woods is managing editor of InstantMessagingPlanet.