Hand-held computers, such as the Palm and Handspring Visor units, and those devices powered by the Microsoft Pocket PC operating system, have revolutionized mobile computing. Even lawyers have embraced the opportunity to have calendars, contacts, e-mail, notes and documents available in a compact and accessible unit.
But where do we go from here? What can we expect to see in future hand-helds? For one, expect them to go wireless in a big way. Microsoft Corp. has already announced “personalized” wireless Internet services, such as MSN Mobile for the Pocket PC. Likewise, Palm Inc. recently announced that it will put wireless capabilities into all of its hand-helds. Within the next 12 to 24 months, expect wireless messaging and Web access to become a basic part of any serious hand-held efforts. Wireless will become the center of hand-held computing, around which other developments will orbit.
