Is it a GPS, a PDA or Both?
A GPS is a Global Positioning System which is basically a device which shows your current location on Earth to a high degree of accuracy. These devices are mainly used commercially as high-end maps which offer detailed directions to a plethora of locations in the country. An example of this is the Garmin nuvi 350. It comes with many preloaded maps and various Points of Interest which make it easier for the user to find stores, accommodation and even food wherever he or she may be with the ease of a touch screen.
A PDA is a Personal Digital Assistant or a pocket computer in layman’s terms. Nowadays, PDAs have gained audio capabilities which allow them to be used as mobile phones too- an extremely popular example is the BlackBerry, owned by RIM. This phone has been dominating the PDA market over many years and continues to gain popularity due to celebrities such as Paris Hilton using them.
Therefore, GPS PDAs are PDAs which have the added function of being GPS enabled. This means that one can find maps and directions on them too. An example of this device may be the Garmin iQue300 which holds the honor of being the first PDA to include GPS technology. Its GPS system was a Garmin and its PDA Operating System was that of Palm OS 5. A bonus feature in this product was that it could locate contacts stored on the phone through voice activation.
However, the debate rages on as to which is better? Are a GPS and PDA as two separate gadgets a wiser choice or should one opt for a converged device?
One Gizmo or Two?
There are pros and cons to whichever one you choose. Buying the GPS and the PDA separately will definitely be harder on your wallet than a converged device. Also, while hiking or pursuing any activity outside the car, a bulky GPS will be more of a problem than a help (unless you buy a GPS suited for the outdoors, which in turn will be more expensive). In such situations you will be best suited with a GPS PDA phone. On the other hand, a converged unit may be more distracting for the user especially if he is using the phone and the GPS at the same time. The GPS PDA phone will also have a comparatively smaller screen than that of a GPS on its own, so it may be harder to read.
All in all, it depends on your needs. If you are technophobic and want to keep using your PDA as a minicomputer and a phone; separate units are better for you. But if you want to go easy on your wallet and don’t mind a little more complications, then a GPS PDA phone maybe your best choice.
