During that time there were smartphones and handheld computers, as well as smaller music players. I personally used one of the early BlackBerries, as well as t

During that time there were smartphones and handheld computers, as well as smaller music players. I personally used one of the early BlackBerries, as well as the "Pocket PCs" and the Compaq/HP iPAQ. They were technologically capable of most of what the first iPod/iPhones could do... I think the game changers were, with respect to the current market direction at the time: - Better usability. Fewer hardware buttons and no need for a stylus pen. - Readily available applications through the app store. - Readily available content through iTunes. - In app purchases. Later all other mobile platforms copied this model.