The Evolution Of PDAs

rbruels writes: "They first made their appearance as clunky high-tech note pads for Captain Kirk (embedded sound warning) and his crew, but back here in the 21st century, the proliferation of the PDA has become a real phenomenon. This story on Unstrung gives a good insight into the evolution of these portable devices, and the factors that will influence their growth in the years to come. A good read. (As a side note, I have yet to purchase a PDA. /me hangs his head in shame.)" More importantly than where they've been though, is what's next for PDAs. What features would you trade the baby for?

Comments

Please, no voice recognition!

[Rick the Red]

I don't want voice recognition on any PDA until the PDA can read lips. I'm surrounded by people occasionally talking on their cell phones; the last thing I need is to have them all constantly talking to their PDAs! Besides, who are you talking to? The PDA, the person on the phone, or the phone itself? Or maybe your laptop? Or your car? Or your keychain? Hell, why not put voice-interfaces on everything, so we can relish the treat of hearing everyone talk to vending machines and elevators and doors, too!

Shut up already and let me alone! If it can't talk back, you shouldn't talk to it. If it does talk back, then talk to it in private.

Bluetooth & cellular

[ryanwright]

I'd buy a PDA; I'd love to have one. But I already carry a cellular phone and refuse to lug two devices around. Include the following features in a PDA & I'll bite:

- Built in cellphone. I'm not talking about a bulky add-on module, and if I have to hold the whole PDA up to my head, you can forget it. Unless, of course, the PDA is the same size as a typical cellphone.

- Bluetooth support for wireless earpiece. That way I can leave the damn PDA in my pocket and receive a call with a small earpiece. Not a full headset, just a little thing that sits in my ear.

- Size. Keep 'em small. They're doing a pretty good job at this already.

- Power. Give me enough power to run the thing for hours. Power for the cellular feature alone should be at least 8 days standby/4 hours talk, on par with current phones. And give me a nice way to quickly recharge my wireless headset. Maybe a small port on the PDA itself that can recharge the headset in a matter of minutes from the PDA's battery.

While you're at it, make the headset strong. I want to be able to shove it in my pocket along with my keys and who knows what else without worrying about it getting torn up.