Tiger Electronics, a subsidiary of toymaker Hasbro, says its Lightning Mail device is the size of a small cell phone and it enables users to send and receive mail by plugging the device into a telephone wall jack.
Users compose text messages with a stylus using an on-screen keyboard.
The device uses as its Internet service provider NetZero, the free Internet service provider. The company says that it is aiming the device at children and will require signed permission from parents for e-mail accounts for children under the age of 13. The company didn't say when the device would be released or provide prices. Another company, Cybiko, says it is aiming its new wireless device at kids. The Cybiko device is about the size of a Gameboy and supports instant messaging via short-range radio signals.