There will be a need for a PDA. A couple of reasons for such a handheld. First, PDAs have calculators which will help the student to learn to work with complex math without the issues of making mistakes. When learning the basic maths, calculators will likely not be allowed, but the PDA can also still function as a voice recorder which will allow the student to record the lectures from the instrcutors. This will make studying easier, and more flexible.
As of now, there is no real company that would make PDAs since smartphones have basically made that device extinct, but in my opinion, there is a need for PDAs in schools. Why would a 6 year old have a smartphone. This is likely something most guardians will be opposed to. Now if a guardian wants their 6 year old to have a phone, that would be a decision between the guardian and the child. It is not the school’s responsibility to provide for a cellular phone.
The minimum system requirements will be as follows:
- 1Ghz Hexacore CPU with 6GB of memory
- 128GB for OS/Apps + micro-SD support for up to 1TB
- 6″ display at 16:9 and a minimum of 1080p
- USB-C Charging
- 12MP front camera, 12 MP rear camera
- biometric recognition
- 5 years of security updates
Rationale
The handheld is designed to provide a device for minor tasks such as calculations, and minimal app usage. The handheld can also be used as a media player by connecting the handheld to the computer. The handheld can also be used as a phone for the student provided their guardian endorses and pays for service. If this happens, then other messaging apps can be used. This will include RCS, and SMS as well as popular messaging clients. Even without cellular, messaging clients can be used, but just need to be on wifi.
A 1Ghz hexacore CPU will be invaluable for operation of the handheld. This will allow for processing files, and apps. 8GB memory is the minimum for AI, and with that in place, then the student can use the handheld in help with writing, and other activity.
A 128GB of storage for OS/Apps will be essential. There will be some tools required by the school, but anything beyond that will be up to the student with permission of the guardian. The student will be advised to acquire a micro-SD card for personal files such as setting files, and media.
A 16:9 screen will be important. While 6.9″ may sound large, it is about standard for the larger phones, and this trend does not seem to be going down. Again, the goal is to keep the device for as long as possible. With that said, a minimum of 1080p will be required. This is obviously important for resolution, and video watching.
As with NSC requirements, all smartphones and handhelds must use USB-C for charging. This will be in place, and meet those requirements. While USB-C charging will be required, Qi Charging is not required. And obviously, the phone must meet all of the specs required by NSC.