Handwriting Recognition

The technique by which a computer system can recognize characters and other symbols written by hand. In theory, handwriting recognition should free us from our keyboards, allowing us to write and draw in a more natural way. It is considered one of the key technologies that will determine the ultimate success or failure of PDAs and other hand-held devices. To date, however, the technology has had only limited success. This is partly because it is still a young technology and is not as fast or accurate as it needs to be. Another reason for its slow acceptance, however, is that the keyboard is in fact more convenient in many situations. Many people can write much faster with a keyboard than they can by hand.