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OQO, one of the first vendors to introduce a handheld-sized PC, called the OQO model 01, that runs a full version of Windows XP (and not Windows Mobile), is preparing to release an update. The source of this information is everyone's favorite leaky faucet government agency, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), which has approved said device for U.S. consumption.

The OQO Model 2 follows the original, which shipped back in 2004, long after it was first announced, and an upgrade called the OQO Model 01+. The top image shows the placement of FCC ID label on OQO Model 2.

Thanks to a confidentially request by OQO, the FCC doesn't spill the beans about very many details and specifications regarding the OQO Model 2. It is known, however, that the new edition expands Wi-Fi compatibility from just 802.11b to 802.11ab/g and may be a little bigger than its predecessor.

About a month ago, OQO made its micro PCs available at retail for the first time: at a single store, RCS Experience, in New York City. OQO asserted at the time that the move marked the first shot in a strategic diversification of its sales channels. Previously, the company only sold its wares online.

The OQO model+ measures a mere 4.9 x 3.4 x .9 inches and weighs 14 ounces. It comes with 512 MB of RAM, a shock-mounted 30 GB hard disk, in addition to USB 2.0, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and FireWire connectivity.

There's also a 1 GHz processor, 800 x 480 pixel WVGA 5-inch display, 3D accelerated graphics with 8MB video RAM, a retractable QWERTY thumb keyboard with mouse buttons and TrackStik, a 3.5 mm stereo headphone jack, microphone, and a removable lithium polymer battery for up to a three hours of power on a single charge.

             
                                          OQO Model O1+

Bundled accessories include a new universal power supply with auto and air adapter desktop stand, digital pen, carrying sleeve and a docking cable.

A Windows XP Tablet Edition of the model 01+ goes for $1,399, a Windows XP Professional version for $1,299, and one running Windows XP Home for $1,199. The addition of Microsoft Office 2003 Small Business Edition costs an extra $300.

For more on the model 01+, see our review.