What type of earlier handheld computer was specifically used for managing contacts and tasks?

The correct answer is D, PDA (Personal Digital Assistant). A PDA is a small handheld device that was designed primarily for managing personal information, which included tasks such as maintaining contacts, calendars, and to-do lists. This type of device was particularly popular before the rise of smartphones.

PDAs typically allowed users to organize their schedules, sync with computers, and store essential information, making them effective tools for personal organization and management. They were often equipped with touch screens and stylus input, facilitating easy data entry.

While smartphones have since combined the functionality of PDAs with telephony and internet capabilities, PDAs stand out as the precursor specifically focused on organizing contacts and tasks without the additional features of modern smartphones. Laptops and tablets, while also capable of managing tasks and contacts, were not primarily designed for that purpose and generally provide more extensive functionalities than what PDAs offered in terms of personal data management.