In late June, 2003, Microsoft formally introduced Windows Mobile 2003, the latest edition of the operating system and applications that are built into Pocket PCs, Smartphones and related devices. Perhaps the most notable change is the name of the software. Six years ago when Microsoft first introduced its software for mobile devices, it was simply called Windows CE (and we never found out what "CE" meant). Since then, the software has been called Microsoft Handheld PC, Microsoft Pocket PC, and now Windows Mobile 2003. Microsoft's goal with the name change is to align its mobile OS and application suite with, and capitalize on, the highly-recognizable Windows brand name. This issue of Pocket PC magazine focuses on this new Windows Mobile software for the Pocket PC.
A number of improvements to the operating system and application suite have been incorporated into Windows Mobile 2003. The OS is a bit faster and more efficient, communications support has been enhanced, and a couple of new applications have been added. You can read more about these changes in this issue.
A number of manufacturers have introduced Pocket PCs based on Windows Mobile 2003. Check out the review of HP's new h2200 Pocket PC--very different from previous iPAQs--and take a look at HP's other new offerings. Find out what Toshiba, Dell, and Gateway will be doing. And don't forget the Handheld PC--NEC just announced its new MobilePro 900, based on the Handheld PC 2000 OS and applications. We'll review it in a future issue.
What were Microsoft's goals for Windows Mobile 2003? Will it make the enterprise user's life any easier? Will manufacturers offer upgrades for existing Pocket PC users? Read on and find out.
"That's all well and good," you say. "But I like the Pocket PC I have and won't be buying a new one for a while." Fortunately, a number of articles in this issue may help you like your current Pocket PC even more. Are you planning a vacation or going on a business trip this summer? Our Pocket PC Awards judges have definite opinions about the best travel-related software. Read about how major game developers are creating more content for the Pocket PC; read about it in Games Roundup. Are you in the mood for a high-tech treasure hunt? Check out the articles on "geocaching."
There's a lot more in this issue, including new products, tips and tricks, and software reviews. And of course there are user profiles. Read about how an oil industry consultant and a rabbi use their Pocket PCs for material and spiritual gain.
From now on, we'll be referring to the software that powers these mobile devices as "Windows Mobile 2003," or simply "Windows Mobile." However, the mobile devices themselves will still be called Pocket PCs, Pocket PC Phone Editions, or Smartphones.
We will remain Pocket PC magazine.
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