News
Issue #2003 - 07 (February 2003)
(Updated Feb. 27, 2003)

APPLICATION SOLUTIONS & APPLICATION DEVELOPMENT

VDC Expects Improvement in Rugged Mobile Devices, Including Wearable Computers

Shea sees a continued trend towards end users adopting the many benefits of "hands free" computing capabilities being provided by wearable computers. Some of the key factors VDC identified that are driving demand for wearable computers are:

• Continued improvements in voice/speech based solutions and continued price declines for these technologies
• A growing number of high profile "success stories" showing the tangible and attractive ROI possibilities offered by the wearable concept
• The continued price declines in components used in many wearable computers and the increasing number of large players showing an interest in this emerging area.
• Growth in PDA and wearable form factors is also driven in part by the increasing investment in technologies by companies such as Symbol Technologies, Intermec, TouchStar Technologies, Casio, Panasonic, Vocollect, and Xybernaut.

ABOUT VDC
Founded in 1971, VDC is a technology market research and consulting firm that specializes in industrial and commercial electronics, computing, communications, software and power systems markets. 

For more information: http://www.vdc.com

MobileInfo Comments and Advisory: As more enterprises and public sector agencies including mobilize their blue-collar workers, use of ruggedized devices will increase. However, users should be aware that ruggedized handhelds are more significantly more expensive than off-the-shelf variety. Business managers should understand the cost tradeoffs with absolute need for rugged computers in harsh environments.

Note: This news release may contain forward-looking statements within the meaning of section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and section 21E of Securities Exchange act of 1934 in USA. Similar provisions exist in other countries. There is no assurance that the stipulated plans of vendors will be implemented. MobileInfo does not warrant the authenticity of the information. Readers should take appropriate caution in developing plans utilizing these products, services and technology architectures.  All trademarks used in this summary are the property of their respective owners.