There is revolution in the air. Wireless communication devices are cutting the cords - and cables - that bind, freeing voice and data communications to take flight with devices as peripatetic as our modern lifestyles. From ramped-up handheld computers to new "smart phones," next-generation gadgets are debuting that allow users to Web browse and email - all without a wire in sight.

The hands-down winner for most popular handheld so far has been the Palm Pilot, now poised for the wireless revolution with the Palm VII. In addition to the usual calendar and address book functions, the Palm VII delivers wireless Internet and email functions with the tap of a stylus via the Palm.net network. Using a system called "Web clipping," the network provides specific information like stock quotes and sports scores - minus data-consuming graphics - in answer to queries for specific information.

Available in a flush of colors, Handspring's Visorfeatures IR (short-range wireless) capabilities that allow it to "talk" to another Visor. Innovative peripherals for this system include digital camera and MP3 player options. For users of either handheld system not keen on tapping a stylus or tiny buttons, full-size keyboards that fold-away to pocket-size are available.

Taking their cue from the far-out flip-phones Capt. Kirk and crew sported in Star Trek, new smart phones like Motorola's Timeport P8167 do things even the good captain of the Starship Enterprise couldn't have imagined. In addition to voice services, the sleek Timeport's microbrowser lets users access directions, airline information and other services online. Additional advanced features include multi-language support and synchronization capabilities with handhelds and desktop/laptop computers.

Other device manufacturers like Nokia, Ericsson and Neopoint certainly haven't been sitting on the smart-phone sidelines either. They are all busy putting impressive technology and innovative design into the hands of users hungry for an ever-increasing line-up of services and functions. Access to wireless services doesn't end with smart phones - another option includes diminutive personal communicators with big features like the RIM Blackberry. Looking like a pager on steroids, the feature set includes sending and receiving email and even the ability to send faxes and digitized voice messages. The future has arrived, with no strings attached.

Eric Hiss