In the early 2000s, handheld computers were all the rage. As technology was rapidly advancing, these pocket-sized devices were seen as the future of computing. In 2001, a variety of handheld computers were available on the market, each with its own unique features and capabilities. In this blog post, we'll take a trip down memory lane and explore the world of handheld computers in 2001, discussing the most popular devices, their specifications, and their impact on the tech industry.

Pocket PCs: The Powerhouses

One of the most popular categories of handheld computers in 2001 was the Pocket PC. These devices, powered by Microsoft's Windows CE operating system, were designed to offer a wide range of functionality and computing power in a compact form factor. Some of the top Pocket PC models in 2001 included:

Compaq iPAQ: The iPAQ was one of the most successful Pocket PCs on the market. With its sleek design, powerful processor, and expandable memory, the iPAQ was a favorite among both consumers and business users. The iPAQ H3600 series, released in 2001, featured a 206 MHz Intel StrongARM processor, 32 MB of RAM, and a 3.8-inch color TFT display.

Hewlett-Packard Jornada: The HP Jornada was another popular choice for Pocket PC enthusiasts. The Jornada 540 series, released in 2001, boasted a 133 MHz Hitachi SH3 processor, 32 MB of RAM, and a 3.8-inch color TFT display. One of the standout features of the Jornada was its built-in CompactFlash slot, allowing users to expand the device's storage capacity and add peripherals like GPS receivers and digital cameras.

Casio Cassiopeia: Casio's Cassiopeia line of Pocket PCs was known for its durability and ruggedness. The Cassiopeia E-200, released in 2001, featured a 206 MHz Intel StrongARM processor, 64 MB of RAM, and a 3.8-inch color TFT display. The E-200 also included both CompactFlash and Secure Digital (SD) expansion slots, making it a versatile option for users who needed extra storage or wanted to add peripherals.

Palm OS: The Pioneers

Before the rise of the Pocket PC, Palm OS devices dominated the handheld computer market. In 2001, Palm OS devices continued to be popular choices for users who wanted a more straightforward, easy-to-use interface. Some of the top Palm OS devices in 2001 included:

Palm m500 series: The Palm m500 and m505 were the successors to the popular Palm V series. These devices featured a sleek, slim design and improved hardware. The m500 came with a monochrome display, while the m505 featured a 3.3-inch color TFT display. Both devices included 8 MB of RAM and an expansion slot for Secure Digital (SD) and MultiMediaCard (MMC) memory cards.

Sony Clie: Sony's Clie line of Palm OS devices was known for its unique design and multimedia capabilities. The Clie PEG-N710C, released in 2001, featured a 3.8-inch color TFT display, 8 MB of RAM, and a 33 MHz Motorola DragonBall VZ processor. The Clie also included a Memory Stick expansion slot and built-in audio playback capabilities, making it a popular choice for users who wanted a handheld computer with multimedia features.

Handspring Visor: The Handspring Visor was a line of Palm OS devices that focused on expandability and customization. The Visor Prism, released in 2001, featured a 3.8-inch color TFT display, 8 MB of RAM, and a 33 MHz Motorola DragonBall VZ processor. The Visor's standout feature was its Springboard expansion slot, which allowed users to add a wide range of peripherals, including GPS receivers, digital cameras, and even cell phone modules.

The Impact of Handheld Computers in 2001

Handheld computers in 2001 were a significant step forward in mobile technology. These devices offered users the ability to access email, browse the web, and manage their schedules while on the go. The popularity of handheld computers also paved the way for the development of modern smartphones, as manufacturers began to experiment with adding features like cameras, GPS, and cellular connectivity.

Additionally, the competition between Palm OS and Pocket PC devices helped drive innovation in the handheld computer market. As each platform tried to outdo the other, new features and improvements were constantly being introduced, ultimately benefiting the consumer.

Looking Back: Handheld Computers in 2001

The world of handheld computers in 2001 was an exciting and rapidly evolving landscape. With a range of powerful devices offering various features and capabilities, users had plenty of options to choose from. While the technology has come a long way since then, it's fascinating to look back at these early devices and see how far we've come in the world of mobile computing.