Cells phones are really all the rage right now ?

Therein lies the issue with all technology; deciding what is a waste of time and what makes you more productive. I'm reminded of the employee that spends 8 hours working on a new excel macro that saves 5 seconds worth of work.

At any rate, there are three areas to look at when purchasing a new cell phone: Voice minutes, text messaging, and data connectivity. All cell phones will take phone calls, its the text messaging and data connectivity that make a cell phone perfect for you.

Text messaging is fairly straightforward: Do you want to text others by using an abbreviated keyboard, or do you prefer a full QWERTY keyboard? While the keyboard largely determines the size of the phone, phones will a full QWERTY keyboard will not add too much to the phone's overall size, certainly not enough to outweigh the benefits and the ease of use.

Data connectivity is really the single largest thing that determines what kind of phone you should get, and when your phone should be upgraded to a phone that handles data connectivity to your satisfaction. Data connectivity allows for your email, web browsing, onboard navigation, and the thousands of other applications to work on your smartphone. Before upgrading to a smartphone, you really do have to consider what you need, and how frequently you need it, as it can add a staggering $720 to a two year contract.

Some points to consider:

Do I need a full email client on my phone, one that allows for integrated browsing, because your emails contain many pictures and web links?

Does the web browser I currently have on my phone do a good enough job for the amount of time that I use it? Do I need to get a new cell phone, or will a new web browser do the trick?

Do I need GPS navigation on my phone, or do I already have a navigation feature in my car that I can use?

Do you need integrated applications that require data connectivity? Research on the web, applications that transmit data such as credit card transactions, medical information, and file transfers are excellent applications that can increase the amount of time you have to do other things while increasing the quality of your life.

If you research these issues prior to purchasing your cell phone, then really, there is no need to get a new phone every time one is released. Be honest with what your needs are, and weigh the monthly cost against your needs that you have in your professional and personal life. If you get it right the first time, your phone will have no problems meeting your needs for the 20 - 22 months that your contract demands. It is simply too much money to get a free phone because you're tempted by that short term price to find out it doesn't meet your needs six months out. If you take your time, do the right thing, then you'll find you have the technology that meets your needs when you need it.

One final thought on the subject - all carriers have a buyer's remorse period between 14 - 30 days. If you find that the phone you've selected isn't what you hoped, bring it back to the retailer immediately and get an exchange. Experience with a new phone can be an excellent teacher.

This answer was edited by secretagent 154 days ago.

Reason: :)