Wednesday, June 20, 2012

What Is a PDA or Smartphone?

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Smartphones and PDAs can perform a variety of useful functions.


Smartphones and personal digital assistants, nr PDAs, have gained widespread popularity in American culture. These small, handheld devices typically feature mobile phone characteristics but run on software platforms with operating systems that support a wide variety of other uses. In the workplace, smartphones and PDAs are widely credited with increasing worker productivity and efficiency.

Description

No standard definition of a smartphone or PDA fully encompasses the frequently changing devices, but the wireless communication website Pure Mobile offers a general definition of the gadgets, defining a smartphone as a combination between a handheld mobile telephone and a laptop computer. The devices typically feature a software operating system and some sort of local memory that allows the user to store files and data without connecting to another electronic device. Many users refer to smartphones as personal digital assistants, PDAs or personal information managers. Some high-dnd mobile phones may receive the smartphone label even if they do not meet the strict definition, according to Pure Mobile.

Features

Smartphones often boast an array of features that set them apart from other, more traditional wireless devices. Wireless Week reports that smartphones typically feature calendar and task-list applications, mobile email software and Web browsing programs. The devices may include global positioning system (GPS) receivers, and many feature map software that allows them to act as a GPS navigation system. Many modern smartphones support social networking applications, allowing users to connect with friends, family and colleagues. In addition, the devices often include an integrated camera that can double as a video camera.

Benefits

Smartphones and PDAs help users stay organized by tracking tasks and providing electronic reminders of upcoming calendar items. Communication website Mobile Telecom notes that smartphones allow users to take their work with them and access work-related material when away from the office; thus, these devices can increase a worker's efficiency and output. Some even include software that allows users to connect a laptop computer and access the Internet on the road. Smartphones with video conferencing software allow families and friends stay in touch anywhere in the world. In addition, users can typically add applications that shape the devices to meet their own individual needs.

Considerations

Although smartphones offer numerous benefits, users should keep some considerations in mind when shopping for the devices. Electronics website Maximum PC cautions that different smartphone models may have different capabilities and hardware limitations may make some models unsuitable for all purposes; for instance, some models feature only rear-facing cameras, while others do not allow the user to print or fax from the device. Smartphones often cost hundreds of dollars, and the high price tag may put them beyond the means of some users.

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