Hitachi Maxell has a new pen that features Bluetooth compatibility. Seems like something like this would be a nice replacement for graphic tablets, because frankly, I have a difficult drawing/writing something by hand unless I can see what I've already done.

Hitachi Maxell Corporation announced o­n the 25th that they will begin OEM shipments of their slimmed-down "DP-201" Anoto style digital pen.

This is an Anoto digital pen that supports USB and Bluetooth. When writing characters o­n paper that features specially printed dots, they will be recognized by an internal sensor, and what was written will be transferred to the PC.

The miniaturiazation/modulization of the optics and miniaturization of the electronic parts and circuitry allows the pen to be 15% smaller and 20% lighter versus the current "DP-101U/B" model.

The pen measures 157 x 21 x 18mm (W x D x H, including cap), and weighs about 30g. It features an internal lithium ion battery which allows for roughly 2 hours of continuous writing. A USB cradle is included that features data transfer and charges the pen.

Inspired by:
http://pc.watch.impress.co.jp/docs/2005/0726/maxell.htm

Press Release:
http://www.maxell.co.jp/company/news/2005/050725.html