Today we have Handheld PCs, H/PC Professionals, Palm-size PCs, Smart Phones, Feature Phones, sub-notebooks, Information Appliances, and all manner of names for them! These devices are all designed to provide us with information that we need when we are on the go. Does it really matter what they are called? Does it matter whether they are a computer first and a wireless device second, or a wireless device first and a computer second?
When it comes to names, I prefer "Information Appliance." This name describes what these devices should be -- business tools that are focused around what the individual wants and needs. An Information Appliance is a PDA, a Handheld PC, a Palm-size PC, or even a wireless phone with some elementary computing capabilities.
Microsoft has aspirations of making Windows CE the operating system of choice in a wide variety of mobile devices including all of the above plus automobile radios, set-top TV boxes, and perhaps even pagers. However, there are many other operating systems that compete with Microsoft's OS that are being used in many different types of Information Appliances.
In reality, users don't really care which operating system is used (sorry, Microsoft). And they don't care that much about the form factor either. The compelling reason we carry these devices is that they provide us with access to information that we want and need when we are not sitting in front of a desktop PC. We need it because it enables us to take better care of our clients, to make sure we show up on time for meetings, and to ensure that we remember to send that promised piece of information to a prospective client. Information Appliances are here to help us do more in less time, do it better, and to help us keep track of what we have done.
Conscious-carry vs. Unconscious-carry
I divide Information Appliances into two distinct classes: "Conscious-carry" and "Unconscious-carry." Conscious-carry devices are those that do not fit into a pocket, a purse, or on a belt. As we leave home or office, we have to consciously decide whether or not we need to take it with us. Handheld PCs and newer H/PC Pros are definitely conscious-carry devices, as are all laptop PCs and even some of the new Smart Phones.
An unconscious-carry device is small enough to slip in our pocket without worrying about it. Even if we don't use it to its full potential this time, we might want to access some of the information it contains. Small mobile phones, pagers, and the smaller Palm-size PCs fit into this class. Some people might want to carry a combination of conscious and unconscious-carry devices, but I would much rather carry two unconscious-carry devices than a single conscious-carry device.
Work-creation and information-access
We also need to consider the difference between work creation and information access. In the PC Companion world, the Handheld PCs and H/PC Pros are designed to let you continue doing the work you would normally do on your desktop PC, while you are on the road. The Palm-size PC is designed to let you access important data. But there is certainly cross-over between these two roles. Does a work-creation device have to have a full-size keyboard? Does an information-access device have to be small in size and capability? Which type of device do we want to carry? Which type do we have to carry?
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