Why we *need* an Apple PDA
We all have to remember what makes a computer (ordigital device like iPod) an Apple. These devices aren't just massproduced comsumer electronics. That is just the tangible form of the Apple Experience. It is that experience that people seek when they talk about Apple building a better PDA.
I have a Palm Vx, it is my second PDA, my first being an Everex Freestyle runing Windows CE (yuck). Both were great devices, and both leave the market wide open for someone to create a better experience. (examples? true syncronization of data, ability to copy files from desktop filesystem to PDA, airport network access within an office building, sharper/clearer displays, Java2 support for thin client HTTP apps, etc)
Just like the iPod creates an amazing experience for MP3 player owners, Apple could choose to give us a PDA experience we would shell out a similar premium for.
The problem is that in my personal experience, I use my cell phone as my personal PDA (phone numbers of friends, etc) and my PDA 95% for work or travel. If most people follow a similar usage pattern, then Apple shouldn't launch such a product until they penetrate the business market - UNLESS they create a PDA targeted at students. Highschool and College students would benefit greatly from the mobility and instant availability of information a PDA brings. Further, Apple's strategy has always been, get 'em using the Mac early and they will use them when they grow up too.
Your thoughts?