The term "mobile software" refers to a wide range of computer applications designed to run on cell phones, Smartphones, personal digital assistants (PDAs) and portable handheld computers. Mobile phone software is designed to support everything from Web browsing and social networking to video games and instant messaging.
An Overview of Mobile Software Applications
If your mobile phone or portable computer is set up for Internet access, you'll likely be making use of one of the many mobile Web browsers available. Internet Explorer Mobile, Firefox for Mobile and Opera Mini (and its cousin, Opera Mobile) are among the most popular. These browsers are generally available for download as free mobile software. You can add Internet access to your mobile plan or get online on a pay-per-use basis.
Windows mobile software includes a wide range of applications, games and Web browsing tools. Popular Windows mobile apps include GPS navigation, mobile phone finders, personal information backups and call blockers (not to mention a long list of games). In fact, such practical applications comprise a significant percentage of mobile software downloads, whether they're Windows-based or not. Additionally, Microsoft (along with dozens of other companies) also has mobile messaging software for SMS texting as well as real-time instant messaging on the go.
Default software applications available that come standard on the iPhone include a calendar for appointment tracking, photo applications, YouTube access, stock quotes, maps, weather information, a compass, a calculator, iTunes access and a shortcut to the App Store, where you can buy specialized add-ons to customize your experience.
For ultimate compatibility and functionality, look for mobile software produced by the same company that made your phone before you seek similar products from third-party providers. For example, if you've got a Samsung phone, you'll find it easier to install and use Samsung mobile software.
Mobile Software Platforms
The most popular mobile development platform options include Java ME, Symbian, Android, BlackBerry, iPhone OS, Lazarus, Python, .NET Compact Framework, BREW, Pocket PC software, Microsoft Smartphone, Palm OS, Flash Lite and microbrowser-based functions.
Each of these platforms has specific strengths and weaknesses, and each is better-suited for certain applications than others. If you're ever unsure about the functionality of a given piece of mobile software, contact the customer service department of your phone's manufacturer and speak to someone in technical support.