Both platforms can synchronize or backup memory to a desktop or laptop computer. The Palm uses the serial port to transmit data from the handheld to the desktop. This usually takes a little bit of time. On the other hand, the Pocket PC has gone to the faster and more efficient method of transferring by using a USB port. Palm has plans on all its new models to also synchronize by using a USB port.
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This makes it easier and more compatible to Palm users to interface with other handheld devices. Some other Palm benefits are that Palm has over one hundred and forty-five thousand developers, and eight thousand software applications available to add or download to the Palm for a very reasonable price. Most applications are freeware and shareware available on the Internet. The Graffiti handwriting, which is a special shorthand writing that can enter text onto a Palm unit, is more intuitive than the transcriber handwriting that the Pocket PC uses. A good indicator of any product is does it sell.