Smart phones are typically a combination of all the technology and capabilities you’d expect from a desktop computer, combined together with the functionality and design of a high-end mobile phone.

This device has the capacity to perform any function beyond that of a standard mobile phone, via its independent operating system (OS). Rather then having a built-in proprietary OS, this ‘third party’ operating system, which in NZ is typically Symbian or Windows Mobile, uses a set interface regardless of phone model.

These set operating standards have allowed software developers to create downloadable applications for your smartphone enabling you to create a tailor made system to suit your needs. Just like a standard home computer, when bought from the store, has all the basic components. It is up to the individual as to what programs you put onto that system.

Smartphone applications are exactly the same and can come from a number of sources, including the phone manufacturer, the network operator or even third-party software developers aiming to enhance processing and connectivity capabilities.

If you can check your email, send photos and organise contacts on your phone but still can’t download and install these third party applications, then unfortunately your phone isn’t smart.

Benefits
Smart phones these days come packed with features and capabilities. The majority have highspeed internet and email access, detailed address books, scheduling software, built-in cameras, navigation devices, as well as the ability to read documents in a variety of formats, such as PDF or Office documents.

The major benefit or point of difference is the ability for users to personalise their smart phones by downloading an assortment of applications to suit their needs.

For example, a personal trainer could utilise the features of a smartphone by downloading a number of fitness related applications. There are hundreds of health-related programs on offer, including applications that can measure your body mass index (BMI), healthy heart rate variations, as well as keeping track of distance, speed and calories burnt when you’ve gone for a run. The variety and availability is almost endless, with new and updated applications becoming available on a regular basis.

How do I get these applications? Perhaps the best place to see what applications are on offer is Handango (www.handango.com). Here you can browse the various applications for each operating system and device, as well as having the choice to download a huge variety of free or inexpensive applications as well.

Don’t forget that most programs offer trial versions so you can experience exactly what the program can provide and whether or not it’s worth buying the entire program.

Operating Systems - Symbian or Windows Mobile? There a number of operating systems on the market and the most important point a new-user should remember is that in New Zealand, the majority of smart devices operate using either a Symbian or Windows Mobile operating system.

The advantage to buying a device that uses these two OS’s is there are far more compatible applications available online. If you’re considering buying a smart phone, identify how you’re going to use your device and what applications you might like to have in the future. That way you can determine what’s available for each OS online and ultimately which one will suit your needs the best.

Summary
The whole point of the smart phone is to allow the business user to spend less time and money with fewer visits back to the office computer.

Users can make informed decisions with up-to-date information wherever they may be, resulting in a highly effective portable communication device. This not only boosts work place productivity, but allows business transactions and communications to occur faster. Portable connectivity is at your beck and call, so embrace ‘smart’ technology and enjoy all the freedoms a smart phone brings to your day to day life.

For more information visit the Mobile Business Research Pavilion

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