10 key cell phone features
1. Organizer applications: Even the most basic handsets offer organizer applications. Typically, you’ll find a calendar, an alarm clock, a stopwatch, and a calculator. Higher-end handsets will have many more options, while other models will offer offbeat applications such as a compass or a thermometer.
2. Phone book and voice dialing: Consider how many contacts you can store. Voice dialing lets you make calls without using the keypad, which is particularly handy when you’re on a headset or if you’re using the speakerphone.
3. Web browser: This lets you surf the wireless Web and get information such as news and sports recaps, weather reports, and stock quotes. It also lets you download files including games and ring tones. WAP (Wireless Access Protocol) browsers are optimized to view sites configured to display on small, mobile devices but keep in mind that not all sites are made for WAP browsing. On the other hand, some higher-end phones are including full HTML browsers so find out which you’d prefer. You can use some Internet-ready phones as a modem for your PC, but this isn’t a universal feature.
4. Messaging and e-mail: Text messages send text only, and multimedia messages send pictures and videos as well as text. Some handsets support instant messaging from services such as AOL and Yahoo. If you’d like to receive personal or work e-mail on your handset, make sure it supports this feature. Messaging and e-mail cost extra, however, so consider purchasing a data plan if you’ll be using the features frequently. You might also consider a phone with a full alphabetic keyboard for faster typing.
5. Camera and video recorder: Use them for taking pictures and shooting brief video clips. Some have a low-grade VGA resolution, but most camera phones now have resolutions of a few megapixels or more, which offer much better photo quality. Similarly, while some camera phones offer just a few extra features, other models offer a flash and editing options that resemble those on a regular camera.
6. Speakerphone/conference calling: A speakerphone is useful for hands-free calling when you’re driving or multitasking. Consider getting a unit with a full-duplex speakerphone, which allows both parties to speak at the same time. Business travelers who need to set up impromptu meetings will want to look at a phone that supports conference calling.
7. Push to talk: A walkie-talkie-like service that lets you immediately connect with individuals or call groups, which is especially useful for business users who need instant contact with their colleagues. Best of all, you don’t need a cell signal to use them and you won’t use standard calling minutes. Not all carriers offer this feature, however, and it’s not available on all phones.
8. Bluetooth: This feature lets you wirelessly connect via low-frequency radio waves with external devices, such as a headset for making calls. Many phones also allow you to use Bluetooth to exchange or sync data with other Bluetooth devices or to connect to stereo headphones to listen to music. For more information see
9. Multimedia options and memory: Some features to look for include a digital music player, support for MP3 files, and an FM radio. Also, many phones now support streaming video through 3G wireless broadband networks, live TV, and wireless music downloads. For a complete list of carrier-operated services, check out our carrier reviews for AT&T, Sprint Nextel, and Verizon Wireless. There will be an extra fee, of course, and you’ll need 3G service in your area.
For the best experience with a multimedia phone, make sure your phone has plenty of storage space (an external memory card slot is best), and consider whether you want dedicated music controls on the exterior of the phone
10. Accessories, applications, and personalization options: Some phones come in multiple colors or allow for changeable faceplates. Accessories such as Bluetooth headsets, speakers, or SIM card readers also are available, but make sure it’s specifically designed for your phone of choice. Most models offer a variety of customization options as well. These can include a choice of display wallpaper, screen savers, and ring tones. If personalizing your phone is important to you, make sure you have a lot of options before buying a particular model.
Handsets will also differ on their support for extra applications. Though every cell phone supports games not every model comes with integrated titles. In that case, you’ll have to buy them for a few dollars a pop, and your selection will change by carrier. Extra applications are available depending on your phone model and your carrier. The iPhone supports a wide-range of third-party applications through the iTunes Apps store. For example, Sprint offers a wireless backup service to save your contacts, while Verizon Wireless has a GPS application called VZ Navigator.

buy & upgrade your cell phone
1. Find a phone you like. Keeping in mind the points in the previous section, find a handset that offers the best combination of style, features, and performance for you.
2. Check with your carrier. Carrier stores and Web sites are the easiest place to buy a new phone as you can get the new handset activated, sign up for service, and make changes to your account all in one place. If you’re a new customer, your contract agreement will entitle you to rebates and discounts for phones. Find out which ones they are, as they can offer significant savings. Additional rebates might also be available for online purchases.
If you’re a current customer, ask your provider if any deals are available if you get a new model. This is essential as carriers will limit how often you can get rebates on a new phone. Remember that you don’t have to buy a phone that comes with rebates (doing so will mean a new contract) but it can be more economical to do so.
3. Check third-party retailers. You also can buy phones from general electronics stores such as RadioShack that are not affiliated with any carriers. Going this route can offer a couple of advantages. Not only may prices be different, but you might find alternative models not directly sold by a carrier. Just make sure your carrier will support the phone you want. Also, while third-party retail stores aren’t owned by a carrier, they can partner with providers to offer the activations services and rebates.
If you have a GSM carrier, you also might consider buying an unlocked phone, which are available only from third-party retailers. Unlocked phones differ from carrier-branded phones in that they have no settings that tie them to one operator. Unlocked phones are especially attractive to frequent international travelers because they can change providers simply by changing the phone’s SIM card. Just keep in mind that if you buy an unlocked phone, you won’t be eligible for any carrier-sponsored rebates.
4. Do you need a smart phone? Smart phones combine cell phone and PDA functions in one unit. They’re most appropriate if you require e-mail and access to your calendar when on the go. Also, some smart phones allow you to access and edit Word and Excel documents. Smart phones will also vary widely by design. While some models use a stylus and touch screen, others offer full QWERTY keyboards.
Though smart phones are considerably larger and much more expensive than standard handsets, often costing upward of $600, they eliminate the need for two separate devices. Smart phones are available in Palm, Symbian, BlackBerry, and Windows Mobile operating systems, each of which has unique characteristics. Be aware that you’ll need to purchase a separate data plan, which varies by carrier. For more on smart phones and handhelds see CNET’s Quick guide to handheld operating systems.
5. Read the fine print. Some things to keep in mind before you commit:
• You can search auction sites such as eBay for good deals. Use caution when going this route, however. If there’s an outstanding balance tied to the number, the carrier won’t activate the phone to work on a new account. Also, if you receive a broken device, make sure you can return it.
• If you’re prone to losing your phone, consider an extended warranty in case your handset is lost, stolen, or damaged. Some carriers also offer roadside assistance services in case you need help while driving.
• During the grace period, you can return a phone for a full refund if you decide you don’t like it. Check with your provider for exact details.
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