Q: Windows Mobile software powers Pocket PCs, Pocket PC Phone Editions, and Smartphones. What are the essential differences between these devices and the people who use them?
There are some differences, but many more similarities between Windows Mobile-based Pocket PCs and Smartphones. Windows Mobile software for both devices is very similar in look and feel, and you can find many of the same applications for both. You also have the ability to sync your Outlook information, play Windows Media files and browse the Internet with Pocket Internet Explorer.
The biggest difference is in form factor. Microsoft developed Windows Mobile for Smartphone to look and operate as a phone first—to be used in a one-handed fashion, without a stylus. Windows Mobile for Pocket PC was designed with the more data-centric user in mind. Pocket PCs traditionally have more memory, larger displays, faster processors and more powerful software capabilities, in a slightly larger form factor. Pocket PC Phone Edition devices take the Pocket PC device one step further and add the ability to make phone calls with the device.
Which device is right for you depends entirely on what you’re looking to do with it. If you like having a lot of information in a small device, want to be able to make phone calls, and don’t envision yourself needing to write long e-mails, edit spreadsheets and other documents, then a Windows Mobile-based Smartphone is the way to go. If you’re looking for more power, the ability to get on wireless networks, edit documents and do other data intensive activities, a Windows Mobile-based Pocket PC may be more your style. If you want the power of a Pocket PC and the ability to make phone calls all at once, a Pocket PC Phone Edition may be your best bet.
Q: These devices have been referred to as “PC companions.” What does that mean?
Windows Mobile-based devices truly are complimentary to desktop and laptop PCs. They are not replacements by any means, but rather an extension of your PC—allowing you to take critical data with you while away from the office and on the go. There are times when carrying your computer with you just isn’t practical, but having that same information on hand would be valuable. A Windows Mobile-based device allows you to take that information with you, be it a friend’s contact information, e-mail from work, a Word document you’ve been working on, or even a song or video file. You can use your device to input information while out, bring it back and sync it with your computer again; thus your computer remains up to date without having to come with you. Whether you’re taking notes in a meeting, making a grocery list, wirelessly exchanging business cards with new business associates, and more—your device can keep you connected to the people and information that are important.
Q: We keep hearing about the Windows Mobile Portable Media Center. What is it?
Windows Mobile-based Portable Media Centers are new handheld entertainment devices that make it easy to store and play recorded television, movies, home videos, music and photos transferred from a PC with Windows XP. Over the last few years, research has shown that more people are using their PC to store and manage music, digital photos, video content, as well as recorded TV.
Portable Media Centers, which will be manufactured by Creative Labs, Samsung, and iRiver, make it easy to take all your favorite entertainment with you to enjoy on the go, anytime and anywhere, something that’s not possible with today’s MP3 and portable DVD players.
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