From the humble beginnings of pocket calculators to the powerful smartphones we carry today, handheld computers have come a long way. In this blog post, we will explore the history and development of these devices, highlighting some of the most iconic and influential models throughout the years. So, let's embark on a journey through time as we discover the fascinating story behind handheld computers.

The 1970s: Pocket Calculators and Early Handheld Computers

The journey began in the 1970s when pocket calculators started gaining popularity. These devices were the first handheld computers, albeit with limited functionality. The HP-35, released in 1972 by Hewlett-Packard, was the first scientific calculator that could perform trigonometric and logarithmic functions. It was a revolutionary device that set the stage for more advanced handheld computers.

In 1978, Psion Organiserwas launched as the world's first practical handheld computer. It had a small keyboard, a single-line display, and a built-in programming language. Although limited in functionality compared to today's devices, it was a significant step forward in the evolution of handheld computers.

The 1980s: Rise of the Personal Digital Assistant (PDA)

The 1980s saw the rise of the Personal Digital Assistant (PDA), a handheld computer designed to assist with personal organization tasks. One of the most iconic devices from this era was the Psion Series 3. Launched in 1984, it featured a clamshell design, a QWERTY keyboard, and a graphical user interface (GUI). It was capable of running various applications, including a word processor, spreadsheet, and database manager.

Another notable PDA from the 1980s was the Apple Newton. Released in 1993, it was one of the first devices to use a touchscreen and handwriting recognition technology. Although it was not a commercial success, it paved the way for future touchscreen devices.

The 1990s: Palm OS and Windows CE

The 1990s marked the beginning of the battle between two major PDA operating systems: Palm OS and Windows CE. The PalmPilot, released in 1996, was the first PDA to run on the Palm OS. It was an instant success, thanks to its user-friendly interface and synchronization capabilities with desktop computers.

On the other hand, Microsoft entered the PDA market with the launch of its Windows CEoperating system in 1996. Devices running Windows CE, such as the Casio Cassiopeiaand Compaq Aero, offered more advanced features like color displays and multimedia capabilities. However, they struggled to match the simplicity and efficiency of Palm OS devices.