Frequently Asked Questions about Windows Mobile Software

What is a Windows Mobile-based powered device?
What's the difference between a Pocket PC and a Smartphone?
What type of input do the devices use?
Can a Windows Mobile-based powered device also play music?
Can I use the same programs on my device as on my desktop computer?
How do I transfer information from my desktop computer to my device?
Can I browse the entire Internet or just special mobile sites?
Do people actually watch videos on their devices?
What is Bluetooth?
Can the devices use Wi-Fi?
How can I store data on my device?

Q: What is a Windows Mobile-based powered device?

A: A Windows Mobile-based powered device is a handheld device powered by the Windows Mobile-based platform. It allows you to retrieve e-mail, keep track of your schedule and your contacts, browse the Internet, send and receive text messages, read and compose files using Microsoft Word, make charts using Microsoft Excel, and view presentations using Microsoft PowerPoint.* Windows Mobile is rich software that allows you to download third-party software to customize your device. You can download e-books, games, maps, business software, and more.

Businesses use Windows Mobile-based powered devices to help their employees keep in touch while out of the office. Employees may use the devices to check e-mail, track sales, check inventory, place orders, communicate with students, route transportation, and accomplish other tasks by using a variety of line-of-business applications.

The Windows Mobile-based platform is available on a variety of devices from a variety of wireless operators. You will find Windows Mobile software on Dell, HP, Motorola, Palm, and i-mate products. You can purchase a data plan for your Windows Mobile powered device from Rogers Wireless, Bell Mobility or Telus Mobility. Windows Mobile powered devices are available on GSM or CDMA networks. To find out more about which Windows Mobile powered devices are available from your mobile operator, read about devices in the buyer's guide.

*Microsoft Office applications available on Pocket PCs and Pocket PC Phones.

Q: What's the difference between a Pocket PC and a Smartphone?

A: Pocket PCs come with mobile versions of Office applications in addition to Microsoft Outlook. Though there are different Pocket PCs, many come with Wi-Fi to enable you to connect to the Internet when you are in a wireless hotspot. With a Pocket PC, you'll be able to use Word, Excel, and PowerPoint and browse the Internet if you have a device with Wi-Fi and are in a wireless hotspot. You can compose e-mail messages and send them by synchronizing with your desktop computer or wirelessly when you're in a hotspot.

You can do everything with a Pocket PC Phone that you can do with a Pocket PC with the addition of wireless access to the Internet and cellular phone capabilities. If you have a Pocket PC Phone, you can access the Internet through your wireless connection -- you won't need to find a wireless hotspot. Internet access incurs data charges from your wireless provider.

You can add a wide variety of software titles to your Pocket PC and Pocket PC Phone. Find third-party software at Handango or Pocket Gear. You can also visit the Mobile Application catalog, which lists certified applications for Windows Mobile-based powered devices.

A smartphone has phone capabilities and comes with a smaller set of applications. Though you can add third-party software titles to your smartphone, the smaller keypad and screen are designed to give you quick one-handed access to important data. A smartphone is a good choice for business users who need to check e-mail, keep track of their calendars, and take voice notes, but who don't need the added functionality of Word, Excel, and PowerPoint. If you find yourself wanting more functions after you've purchased your device, there are good third-party software titles designed to extend the capabilities of a Windows Mobile-based powered smartphone.

Q: What type of input do the devices use?

A: Pocket PCs and Pocket PC Phones offer several types of input. Some have a QWERTY keyboard. Most use a stylus or on-screen keyboard and a touch screen. You can write, draw, or type your input. Smartphones have a keypad to enter data. Most Windows Mobile-based powered devices can be used with a portable keyboard that connects to the device with Bluetooth or infrared technology.

Q: Can a Windows Mobile-based powered device also play music?

A: Yes! Though many users purchase a Windows Mobile-based powered device to keep track of their e-mail and schedules, they also like to have some fun after hours. Your device comes with Windows Media Player. You can transfer music from your desktop computer to your device. You need a storage card to store and play music.

Q: Can I use the same programs on my device as on my desktop computer?

A: Windows Mobile-based powered devices use mobile versions of familiar Microsoft Office software. Third-party software companies develop software for Windows Mobile-based powered devices that extend the platform. You cannot use desktop versions of your software on your device.

Q: How do I transfer information from my desktop computer to my device?

A: You can transfer files to your device from your desktop computer using a cradle or USB cable. Pocket PCs often come with a cradle, while smartphones usually have a cable. Newer Pocket PC Phones may have a USB cable. A program called ActiveSync comes with your new device. You need to install this program on your desktop to synchronize files between your desktop and your device. If you lose the ActiveSync, you can download a copy of ActiveSync from our Web site. Use the recommended version for your device.

Q: Can I browse the entire Internet or just special mobile sites?

A: Though some sites are more suited to browsing on a mobile device, you can browse the entire Internet on your device. We have a list of mobile-friendly sites that you may want to save as favorites on your device for quick access.

Q: Do people actually watch videos on their devices?

A: Watching videos on a Windows Mobile-based powered device is very popular. If your device has Windows Media Player 10 Mobile or later, it's easy to transfer videos from your desktop computer to your device and take your movies to go. For the best experience, we recommend a Portable Media Center.

Q: What is Bluetooth?

A: Bluetooth technology is a way to connect wirelessly with other devices, peripherals, and your desktop computer. Bluetooth is used most commonly in Windows Mobile-based powered devices for wireless headsets.

Q: Can the devices use Wi-Fi?

A: Many Windows Mobile-based powered devices are enabled for Wi-Fi, though not all.

Q: How can I store data on my device?

A: SD and miniSD cards. SD (Secure Digital) and miniSD cards are the standard form of data storage on devices. Each device is different, so check before you buy one to see which card your device needs. MiniSD cards can be used in an adapter to fit into an SD card slot.

CF cards. CF (Compact Flash) cards are often found in digital cameras and are available for a few Windows Mobile-based powered Pocket PCs. If you have a CF card in your camera and one in your Pocket PC, you can take pictures with your digital camera, insert the card into your device, and view the pictures in a slide show.