One problem with portable devices produced these days is that their batteries usually have a very short life. The battery of my laptop (Compaq Presario 1720US) was dead a few months ago, and now the battery of my Sony Clie NX70V is showing sign of dying. Not matter how long I charge it, it can never be fully charged. And when you think of the fact that I brought the Clie for last than a year, you will realize how bad the situation is. I guess manufacturers are cutting corners to a point that they just don't care about long term customer satisfication, and try to grab as much money right here right now as possible.