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Everyone from children to physicians are finding uses for PDAs. With the many upgrade options available, they are becoming much more than scheduling devices.

Palm OS

The next generation devices from Palm Computing will incorporate Smart Digital card slots. Of course, these SD cards can be used for much more than flash memory expansion. In the future, these slots may be able to transform your Palm into a digital camera, GPS receiver, Bluetooth module, wireless modem, barcode scanner, or even an MP3 player. The plexiglass model of what could be the next generation Palm resembled a Palm V with a SD slot in the left corner.

Palm's future

Another glimpse of the future

Pocket PC

Once again, Microsoft continues to try to woo Palm users to its Pocket PC devices with superior specifications, better LCD screens, and better connectivity. Why aren't we all using Pocket PCs then? It all comes down to software. It is difficult to create a large developer base overnight, but if Microsoft can capture the user base first, then the developers may follow.

Colorful HP Jornadas	Generic Pocket PC devices
Casio's Ruggedized Pocket PC	It's designed for extreme environments

Sony

Sony's memory stick enabled Clié can be enhanced with various memory stick devices, including a digital video camera, digital still camera, GPS module, FM data receiver, TV tuner, active speaker system, fingerprint recognition, digital zoom microphone, picture index stick, memory check stick, jog stick, bluetooth modules, and info sticks.

Sony also introduced a wireless connectivity option with GoAmerica. This module fits onto the back of the Clié, similar to how the Omnisky modems snap onto the Palm V.

A menu of Sony Memory Sticks

Sony and Wireless

Other PDAs

Agenda came out with a Linux based PDA that will open the door for aspiring handheld Linux developers and users. Currently, the VR3 doesn't offer much more than Palm or MS, but with Linux, the potential for a great product is there.

Agenda VR3