The term "iPAQ" originally referred to a line of Personal Digital Assistants (PDAs) developed and marketed by Compaq Computer Corporation, later acquired by Hewlett-Packard (HP). Initially released in 2000, iPAQ PDAs were handheld devices designed to provide users with a wide range of functionalities such as accessing the internet, managing contacts and calendars, and running various applications.
Today, the term "iPAQ" is most commonly associated with a specific model of HP iPAQ PDA, but it has also come to represent a broader category of similar devices. The iPAQ series featured a touchscreen interface, allowing users to interact with the device using their fingers or a stylus. It incorporated a personal organizer, enabling users to store and manage information such as contacts, tasks, and appointments.
iPAQ devices were equipped with various connectivity options, including Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, allowing users to connect to the internet and communicate with other devices wirelessly. They also supported expansion through the use of CompactFlash and Secure Digital (SD) card slots, enabling users to increase storage capacity or add additional functionalities.
Over time, the term "iPAQ" has extended beyond the original PDA designation and now encompasses various handheld devices, including smartphones and tablets, developed by HP and other manufacturers. Although the original iPAQ PDAs are less prevalent today, their influence on the development of handheld technology and their early adoption of features such as touchscreens and wireless connectivity makes them an important part of the history of mobile computing.
