Wireless Application Protocol (WAP)

Abstract

Handheld devices allow people to carry their calendars, address books, reminders, games, and various other tools in a compact unit. However, the prospect of attaching the handheld to the resources of the Internet adds another dimension to the usefulness of these devices. The wireless application protocol (WAP) is an open, global specification to allow wireless devices to access and interact with information and services. This chapter reviews the components of WAP and the challenges involved in producing materials appropriate for access by wireless devices, especially those with small screens, such as the typical handheld device.