Microsoft Windows Mobile-based handheld computing has entered a new period in its evolution.
Handhelds based on the original Microsoft mobile operating system were launched in 1997. In this first era, handhelds were clamshell devices with horizontal displays and QWERTY keyboards—more like mini-notebook computers than anything else. They were the first handhelds to have a Microsoft OS and application suite (Calendar, Contacts, note taker, etc.) built in and ready to use.
The second era began in 2000, with the introduction of the Pocket PC. This new "Windows Mobile" device was smaller and more "pocketable" than the earlier handheld. Gone was the keyboard, replaced by a small touch screen. Microsoft made this new handheld more interesting by enhancing the built-in productivity applications and adding built-in music, multimedia features, including a digital photo viewer and media player with video as well as music capability.
2006 begins the third era of Windows Mobile-based handhelds: the era of Smartphones. (We're using the term here to describe any Windows Mobile device with phone capability.) These new devices combine mobile phone, PDA, and advanced multimedia and Internet capabilities. Multimedia, no longer an afterthought, is front and center on the new devices. (In fact the Windows Mobile group is now part of the new Microsoft Entertainment division.) Music, Podcasts, Internet video, full-length movies, and TiVo TV content have become part of the Smartphone and Pocket PC experience. This experience is made possible thanks to the convergence and integration of Windows Mobile 5.0, Windows Media Player 10, and Pocket MSN.
Just as significantly, newer devices will make much better use of Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and cellular wireless capabilities. Standard built-in Bluetooth will mean easy wireless connectivity between the mobile device and headphones, printers, and keyboards. Built-in Wi-Fi and cellular radio allows fast and economical access to the Web, e-mail, and voice communications, any time and anywhere. The combination of wireless and multimedia means that live TV and radio, while possible now, will eventually become a standard feature on Windows Mobile devices.
The table below outlines the evolution of the devices starting with the "Handheld PC era," through the "Pocket PC era," and now the "Smartphone era".
Are Windows Mobile devices too capable?
The evolution of Microsoft's mobile (handheld) operating system
Handheld PC era 1997-2000
Microsoft brand name: Windows CE*
Keyboard: Yes
Shape: Clamshell
Orientation: Landscape
Input: Pen, keyboard
Built-In software:Pocket Outlook and Pocket Office
Third-party software development environment: Windows PC-like environment (for all three periods)
Wireless: IR
Multimedia (music, video): Built-in music player, 3rd party video solutions.
Internet connectivity, e-mail:Landline modem
Live radio and TV: No
Voice phone: No
Built-in camera: No
Key uses of device: PC Companion (organizer)
Key partners for U.S. distribution: HP, Compaq, Casio
Competition: Palm, Zaurus
Magazine name: Handheld PC Magazine
Pocket PC era 2000-2005
Microsoft brand name: "Windows Powered" ("Windows Mobile" in 2004-5)
Keyboard: No
Shape: PDA, like the original Palm
Orientation: Portrait
Input: Pen
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