Devices and Mobile Technology

Tablets

• Single-screen touch computers with iOS, Android, etc. operating systems
• Larger than 7 inches diagonal in size
• Designed for touch input with virtual keyboards and drawing interfaces
• Support various applications including productivity, games, and utility apps
• Can be used for media consumption, such as taking pictures and watching movies

Smart Phones

• Mobile communication devices for voice, email, text, instant messaging, pictures, and video
• Screen size ranges from 3.5 to 6 inches diagonal
• Can be used as a media viewer for music, movies, and videos
• Supports various mobile applications including maps, travel information, productivity apps, and games

Wearable Technology

• Includes smart watches that extend the functionality of a phone and body
• Can monitor fitness metrics such as heart rate, steps, and sleep patterns

Virtual Reality (VR)

• Replaces reality with a computer-generated version
• Interacts with the real world, with many applications in gaming, industrial design, art, and enhanced video and image viewing

Augmented Reality (AR)

• Overlays virtual information onto the physical world
• Provides additional details, with applications in medical, travel, and gaming

e-Readers

• Specialized devices for reading books, with some music and app capabilities
• Features electronic paper, a black and white screen that performs well in direct light
• Offers exceptionally long battery life, with network access via WiFi or cellular connectivity

GPS

• Enables in-car navigation (and non-car navigation)
• Requires a clear view of the sky to receive GPS signals
• Periodic updates are required, which can be done over the air or via memory card

USB Connectors

• EU standardized on Micro-USB, now common worldwide, while older devices may use Mini-USB which is slightly larger
• USB-C is a 24-pin double-sided connector used for both hosts and devices, supporting USB 3.1 and USB 2.0 connections with an analog audio option and headset support through a 3.5 mm jack

Lightning Connector

• Apple's proprietary 8-pin digital signal connector used for iPhone, iPad, and iPod devices
• Offers higher power output for phones and tablets, can be inserted either way, and has a simpler and more durable design

Tethering

• Physically connects a device to a mobile phone to use its Internet/data connection, enabling Internet access from almost anywhere, but may require service or configuration by the wireless carrier

Proprietary Mobile Interfaces

• Early mobile technology used different cables for power and data, varying by manufacturer, until the EU standardized a common external power supply for all data-enabled mobile phones

NFC (Near Field Communication)

• Wirelessly sends small amounts of data over a limited area, built into phones, for payment systems, transportation, and in-person information exchange, with short-range encryption support

Bluetooth

• Enables high-speed communication over short distances, creating a Personal Area Network (PAN) for connecting mobile devices, smartphones, headsets, health monitors, automobiles, smartwatches, and external speakers

Hotspot

• Turns a phone into a WiFi hotspot, extending the cellular data network to all devices, dependent on phone type and provider, with possible additional charges and data costs

IR (Infrared)

• Included on many smartphones, tablets, and smartwatches, primarily used for controlling entertainment centers, almost exclusively for IR-based functions