Commentary: The Linux alternative for PDAs
Source: CNet News
User organizations must understand that reducing OS license costs for PDAs has minimal impact and that Linux PDAs offer fewer applications than either Palm or Pocket PC. In comparing processor speed, memory, flash and above all screen quality, it makes little difference in overall cost whether the device is powered by Palm OS, Pocket PC or Linux. Applications are the key concern, and businesses should focus on the types of applications (managing personal information, automating a sales force, managing customer relationships and so on) they need and should select and release PDAs accordingly.
On that basis, enterprise users (ranging from large corporations to professional offices) seeking general-purpose PDAs to support pervasive computing will be better served by either Pocket PC or Palm OS choices, depending on their specific needs, with Pocket PC devices offering overall greater expandability and power at a higher price.
Linux PDAs will find a role only in situations where companies need a highly customized or specialized system, or one in which devices will be distributed to extremely large numbers of users, such as fast-food outlets.
