Be more effective and have more fun with great software and hardware accessories.
Windows Mobile devices are designed to be self-sufficient and have all the basics built in and ready to go. However, no single device can be everything to everybody. Fortunately, independent developers have worked hard to create hardware and software products that help you customize your Windows Mobile PDA or smartphone.
This article looks at some of these solutions. We've organized it not by individual products (there are far more than ten) but by topics: the 10 ways you might want to improve your Windows Mobile device. Then we list some "No-cost" and (relatively) "Low-cost" hardware and software you can use to accomplish this. We couldn't resist adding a few tips to some of the sections.
Many of the software programs mentioned in this article were nominated for this year's Smartphone & Pocket PC magazine Best Software Awards.
1. Protect your investment
Even if you get a great deal on a Windows Mobile device, you'll still want to protect your investment. The best way to prevent scratches and other damage is to carry the device in a protective case.
No-cost protection
Most Windows Mobile devices come with a basic slip cover or carrying case. Use it, especially if you carry your device around in a briefcase or shoulder bag.
Low to moderate cost protection
Manufacturers also offer optional cases varying in price and quality. Go to your manufacturer's Web site and look for the link labeled "Accessories
Sena's tan case for the Palm Treo 750 (left); the JAVOedge metal case for the Cingular 8525 (middle), and PDair's leather case for the HP iPAQ 510 Voice Messenger (right).
In addition, a number of independent vendors offer low to moderately-priced carrying cases and slip covers for Windows Mobile devices. You can check out the following vendors: JAVOedge (javoedge.com), Prima Cases (primacases.com), Piel Frama (pielframa.com), PDair (pdair.com), Pocket RhinoSkin (saunders-usa.com/rhinoskin), Sena Cases (senacases.com), or UniQase (uniqase.com). If you need a really rugged case, consider Nutshell (tuff-as-nuts.com) or Otter Products (otterbox.com).
For less expensive solutions, check out the camera or electronics departments at discount stores such as Wal-Mart or Target. They won't have "made for Pocket PCs" stamped on the front, but they should work just fine.
Device manufacturers and other vendors offer screen protectors, thin plastic sheets that protect your display from scratches and wear.
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