Welcome to the information age.
The world has never been so CONNECTED as it is right now!
With the technology boom that began in the second half of the 20th century, the world was introduced to a cavalcade of new electronic gadgets – many of which have become an intrinsic part of daily life.
The cellular phone is possibly the most successful of these machines.
Did you know that currently there are over 3 BILLION cell phone connections in the world?
That’s half the world’s population!
It’s hard to believe, but more people now own a cell phone than own a computer or a TV set!
The popularity of the cell phone in the last decade is due to the increasing versatility of the unit. No longer just for making calls on the go, the cell phone can now be used as an all-in-one gadget – a phone, a computer, a modem, an organiser, a camera, a GPS receiver.
The main telecommunications manufacturers are in a constant race to release higher-powered phones with bigger and better features in order to cement their place in this lucrative market.
So what does this mean for me?
With the close, intense competition that exists in the market today, telecommunications manufacturers and phone plan providers are under more pressure to produce excellent quality phones and cost-effective plans.
With the magnitude of options available to you it can be easy to get lost amongst all of the new features and bonuses.
Researching and shopping around can land you fantastic deals, with low call rates and cheap - or even FREE! - phones.
How do I get started?
Knowing what you are looking for and what TO look for are the main points to consider. Different people have various requirements and expectations from a cell phone.
Some points to consider:
- How often will you be using the phone?
- Will you mainly be calling and sending text messages, or are you looking for more features?
- Will the cell phone be for business or personal use?
- Do you need a camera in your phone?
- Do you know what Bluetooth is, and will you use it?
- Is the stylishness of the phone important to you?
- How much are you willing to spend?
If you know exactly what your needs are, you will find navigating through the numerous options much easier.
If you buy without being aware of the different features available, you may end up paying for functions that you will never use.
What do I need to be aware of?
There are a number of traps you can fall into when purchasing a cell phone and it can be easy to get blind-sighted by a fast talking sales person!
However you should keep some simple points in mind:
- Does the phone have all of the features you require?
- Is the phone covered by a full warranty, including the battery and charger?
- Is the phone all style and no substance?
- Does the pack contain all the necessary accessories to get you started?
- Will the look or technology be outdated before your contract is up?
- Can you find the phone cheaper elsewhere, such as an online store?
- Is the phone strong and sturdy?
- Are accessories such as replacement batteries and protective covers readily available?
What is the best phone to buy?
This all depends on what you are looking for!
The main telecommunications manufacturers such as Nokia and Sony Ericsson release sets of cell phones to cater to different feature requirements. Whether you are looking for a music phone, a PDA, a great camera, a tradesman-friendly phone, or just a very basic handset with call and text functions, there is something on the market to suit you.
That is why knowing EXACTLY what you want is the key to making a good purchase!
How can I express my individuality through my phone?
The modern cell phone is a versatile machine!
Telecommunications manufacturers are aware of the demand for personalisation of cell phones, and make their products highly adaptable. From changeable face-plates to downloaded themes and ring-tones, you can easily make your phone reflect your own individual style.
The intense competition within the market will only push the cell phone to greater heights. It is exciting to think what new ideas telecommunications manufacturers will come up with over the next few years!
At the end of the day, many of us feel like a cell phone is a necessity – and to some it is. But it can also be simply a fun gadget, and one of the advantages of living in the communications era. |
