The major feature of the design is its innovative Expansion Pack system. This is a range of 'jackets' into which you slip the main device in order to add functionality. Although the Expansion packs provide an excellent platform for Compaq and third party add ons, the lack of a CompactFlash slot as standard is a drawback, and the jackets add bulk and weight. Another feature of the iPAQ is its responsiveness. Previous palm-size Windows CE devices have felt sluggish in use, but the combination of Pocket PC's redesigned and streamlined interface and the iPAQ's 206MHz Intel StrongARM processor have put that right.
Image quality is very good, especially if high levels of screen brightness are selected.
If you want to conserve battery life, then there's an ambient light sensor that automatically adjusts the screen's backlighting to the optimal level for the surrounding lighting conditions. This can be disconcerting if the lighting changes rapidly while you're using the device. TFT screen add up to a significant drain on the battery. Beneath the screen are four application buttons and a five-way navigator button that also incorporates the unit's speaker. Two of the application buttons access the Calendar and Contacts programs, while the other two are linked to a pair of custom Compaq applications.