InformationWeek SMB TechEncyclopedia

The Windows platform from Microsoft for handheld devices, including PDAs, smartphones, portable media players and automobiles. The Windows CE operating system is the foundation of the various Windows Mobile environments, and small-screen versions of the popular Office suite and other Microsoft applications are featured. Numerous third-party applications are also available (see Windows Marketplace for Mobile).

     The Classic and Professional versions of Windows Mobile were formerly part of Microsoft's Pocket PC platform, introduced in 2000 (see Pocket PC). See Windows CE.

Windows Mobile Classic
Microsoft's PDA platform without cellular communications; formerly the Pocket PC platform.

Windows Mobile Professional
Microsoft's touch screen platform; formerly the Pocket PC Phone Edition.

Windows Mobile Standard
Microsoft's smartphone platform, which excludes touch screens, contrary to other vendor designations. Formerly Microsoft's Smartphone platform (capital "S").

Windows Mobile for Automotive
Hands-free cellular, GPS and built-in phone capabilities for in-vehicle communications and entertainment. See Windows Mobile for Automotive.

Portable Media Center and Zune
Windows Mobile components have been used in Microsoft's Portable Media Center devices, which evolved into the Zune digital media player. See Portable Media Center and Zune.