There are specific operating systems that can be run on a tablet PC. Even certain old programs can work on a new tablet PC. There is software that recognizes the handwriting of the user. They also ""teach"" the user how to use the pen. If needed, an on-screen keyboard is also available. If one is using an older version of an operating system or any other tablet PC-oriented software, that can be upgraded at regular intervals. The upgraded versions are made available for existing and new users.

The upgraded versions of the software are mostly aimed at widening the functional scope of tablet PCs and integrating their functions more comprehensively. Those who already have a tablet PC can buy software upgrades on the open market, or by downloading them from the official websites of the software companies. Many software upgrades are provided to existing users free of charge. The new tablet PCs coming on the market have already this software installed.

One of the most important software features loaded in a tablet PC is the handwriting-recognition software. It recognizes the writing of a user. The software is continuously upgraded, and it is advisable to upload the latest versions of this particular software. However it still has a limitation of not being able to recognize handwriting in all languages. Though the number of languages it can recognize has been increasing, this software does still not recognize a large number of languages. Hence, before buying a tablet PC, one must find out how many languages that tablet PC can recognize. If it doesn't recognize the language in which you are going to write, it will not be of much use to you.