Treo and Centro manufacturer Palm, Inc. says it’s planning to close 33 out of 34 of its retail stores, most of which are in airports, to reduce expenses and narrow their focus on producing competitive handsets.

In the comapny's most recently ended financial quarter, Palm reported a loss of $9.63 million, compared to net income of $12.8 million for the year ago period.

"We continue to focus our company around core business initiatives and are consolidating more resources behind fewer programs in order to compete most effectively,” the Sunnyvale, Calif.-based company said in an official statement. Palm will continue selling its products through carrier stores, authorized resellers and online.

Separately, Palm settled a class-action lawsuit filed by early Treo smartphone owners who complained the Treo 600 and 650 models required repair or replacement beyond industry norm. Palm is offering cash to users whose devices failed twice, and will repair any Treo 600 or 650 that is outside of the original warranty.

If you think you might be eligible for the rebate or repair, a detailed notice and claim form can be found here.

Related Links

Palm Settlement Claim Forms & Information

This news via BMight.com

Palm Centro gets City Chase participants to finish line - May 01, 2008

Palm launches Centro in Columbia with Comcel and Movistar - Apr 18, 2008

Viva el Centro - Apr 07, 2008

Microsoft demonstrates new Windows Mobile 6.1 for mytreo.net - Apr 04, 2008

Pick-up line contest - Apr 04, 2008