Microsoft is successful in part because it understands the importance of the business ecosystem. It's not enough to design the OS and basic software for a handheld, you need equipment manufacturers to create compelling devices, you need marketing organizations to promote and sell them, and you need independent software and hardware developers to enhance the value of the handheld by creating new applications and accessories that extend its capabilities. If Microsoft is to thrive, all of the elements of the ecosystem must thrive.
Much of this issue of Pocket PC magazine is focused on one portion of this ecosystem: hardware accessories. Seven articles are fully devoted to add-ons that boost the power and functionality of your Windows Mobile device. In one article, members of our board of experts describe their "most essential" accessories. In another, Dan Hanttula investigates how to use accessories to get more out of your Pocket PC. Diane Dumas describes how she used her Pocket PC to view security camera output, and Jack Cook reviews the new Virtual Keyboard. Do you have an iPAQ Pocket PC? We describe iPAQ accessories offered by HP. Do you have a large music or video collection? The Socket OrganizeIT Suite can help you keep it organized. Finally, Tim Hillebrand shares his weight loss secret for travelers. (Hint: It's quick and easy, and doesn't involve food or exercise!)
We list a few more accessories in our new products column, but most of it is devoted to add-on software. Apparently, this part of the ecosystem is thriving because we list over 115 new or newly updated games, applications, utilities, and more. Speaking of games, Allen Gall's column takes you off the beaten path, with a look at some of the more unusual games you'll find for your Pocket PC or Smartphone.
Our Enterprise section supports a very important part of the Windows Mobile ecosystem. The truth is that large enterprise deployments of Pocket PCs and Smartphones insure the profitability of the platform and encourage continued innovation from Microsoft and equipment manufacturers. It also helps keep the price down for the rest of us. A number of very interesting and useful enterprise articles are in this issue.
The final and most important part of the Windows Mobile ecosystem is the consumer (and reader of Pocket PC magazine). The entire magazine is dedicated to the Windows Mobile consumer, but our last section focuses on how individuals use their Pocket PCs or Smartphones to make life easier. Like to travel? Nick Hawkins does, and on the spur of the moment. Read about how his Pocket PC makes it easy. A number of writers contribute to our Tips & Tricks section. Finally, on his annual trip to Uruguay, our publisher uses his Pocket PC to enrich his travel and his vacation, and to help overcome the language barrier.
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