They protect my Windows Mobile device, add capability, and make using it easier and more enjoyable.
I have owned a Windows Mobile device since the original "Windows CE Handheld PC" was introduced nearly ten years ago. In that time, I have seen hundreds of hardware and software innovations flourish within the Microsoft mobile ecosystem. I have shared some of my favorite software titles in past articles, and introduced readers to a number of hardware add-ons that make Windows Mobile devices more usable. What are my favorite accessories? The current countdown begins with…
5: Styra–Ballpoint Pen
$19.95 boxwave.com
One of the most useful improvements I've made to the various touch screen devices I've owned is investing in better styli. My father gave me a Cross pen set when I graduated from college, and that gift has set my expectation for what a high quality writing tool should be. Unfortunately, nearly all of the styli bundled with Windows Mobile products simply don't have the weight and satisfying tactile feel of quality writing implements.
I wasn't the only dissatisfied customer, and early on companies began offering replacement styli for touch screen handhelds. My current favorite is the Styra from Boxwave. It not only delivers better balance, but also includes a ballpoint pen hidden under its cap, for signing hotel registers, deposit slips, etc. Best of all, it fits in the stylus silo on your device. (When you order it, make sure and specify the device you will be using it with.) No, it doesn't have the same feel as a Cross pen, but it's light years ahead of the plastic sticks that ship with devices.
4: PDair Aluminum Metal Case
$28 pdair.com
I also recommend getting a good carrying case for your device. Most ship with a simple slip case, but you want more protection than that. The best source I've found for quality cases is PDair. Their selection is astounding—they have cases for virtually every make and model on the market.
I selected their aluminum case for my HP iPAQ 6315. I could see that careful engineering went into its design—they cut access areas in just the right places without exposing too much surface area of the device. My iPAQ fit snuggly into the padded case, which protected the device and kept it free of scratches. A holder for a spare SD card is located on the inside front cover of the case.
PDair cases are available in a variety of styles, including metal cases, leather wallets, flip cases, clear plastic cases, and more. Whenever a new Windows Mobile user asks me where they can go to buy an attractive, high quality case, I point them to pdair.com without hesitation.
3: BlueAnt X5 Stereo Bluetooth Headset
$119.99 myblueant.com
I took a look at this extraordinary A2DP-compliant stereo Bluetooth headset for an article I wrote a few issues ago, and it quickly became my wireless headset of choice. The BlueAnt X5 achieves the perfect balance of excellent sound quality and full-featured functionality—all in a headset that supplies hours of use.
Another nice touch is the Bluetooth connectivity LED, which pulses subtly to indicate when the headset is paired with your Windows Mobile device. (Many competing products overdo this.) The X5's high-tech black contour design collapses into a tight package when not in use.
Ultimately, headphones are judged by their sound quality, and the X5 excels in this. The deep bass, rich treble, and full tones cover the sound spectrum—few other stereo Bluetooth headsets can match it.
