An information device can be any portable computing device capable of transferring data to or from another device. It typically performs various specialized tasks, such as the calendar, notepad, and phone book functions of a Personal Digital Assistant (PDA). The core of an information device is often an embedded system, rather than a complete laptop or desktop motherboard. Information devices are used by people from all walks of life, such as phones, laptops, and mobile web browsers. They are also used by shipping and warehouse workers to track package contents and deliveries.
An information device can be any portable device that allows the transfer of data to or from another device.
Internet access is not required for a device to be considered an information device, but it is often a resource. More important is the ability to transfer data to and from the device over some type of connection. You can use a wired Ethernet port or a USB (Universal Serial Bus) link for this. It may also include wireless networking capability, either directly to the Internet or to a local area network (LAN).
An information device can be used to read and store handwritten information.
The main function of an information device is usually to retrieve and manipulate data, for commercial or consumer purposes. To do this, you must include some means of input and display for your user, often more limited than a laptop. Depending on the intended use of the device, it may have a specialized keyboard and display. Some units include a touch screen and a stylus for data entry. These devices can also read handwriting.
Jef Raskin of Apple® Computer, Inc. is believed to have coined the term information device around 1979. At the time, it generally referred to an easy-to-use, single-function device such as an electronic typewriter with built-in memory . . If they existed in the early 1980s, digital audio players, video players, and e-book readers would also be considered information devices. Over time, the term evolved to imply something very different. A modern information device is generally considered to be an all-in-one device that has the ability to communicate with other devices.
Jef Raskin’s original definition of an information device also stipulated that all software and hardware for that device should be built around open standards. At least one early device was fully open but did not survive for market reasons. Most of the early products failed because they weren’t unique enough or because they were ahead of their time.
