Cell Phones: Not Just for Talking Anymore
Cell phones are used primarily for wireless, mobile communication, but technological advances are making it more and more common for cell phones to be used to take pictures, search the Internet, send e-mail and text messages, watch videos, receive news updates and more.
A number of people are now even personalizing their mobile phones with accessories and customization options, such as:
- personalized ringtones
- phone charms
- phone skins
- wall paper.
Cellular phones can also be synched with computers and other mobile devices, like PDAs, to exchange information, music, pictures and other files. You can even transfer and duplicate entire address books through the synching of cell phones and home or office computers.
To keep pace with the evolution of cell phones, service providers are now offering plans that include more than just cellular minutes and calling capabilities. Unlimited text messaging, Internet access, camera capabilities, games, calendars and organizers are often included with calling plans for certain cell phones.
In this section, we will cover cell phone essentials, discussing everything from the capabilities of different cell phones to different service plans to accessories and functions. We will also provide information on advancing cell phone technologies, code division multiple access (CDMA), the global system for mobile communications (GSM) and even international cell phone service.
Beyond Talking
Text messages, surfing the Internet, sending e-mail, downloading and listening to music files, watching videos and taking photos are all capabilities of many cell phones. Learn all of the things that cell phones can do so that you can choose the right phone and properly use every cell phone feature available. Read to learn about the many capabilities of cell phones as well as future cell phones and capabilities.
Cell Phone Accessories
Many cell phones now offer additional accessories, like car chargers, head sets, SIM cards, belt clips, covers and cases. Learn which accessories are the most useful and cost-efficient, which accessories are necessary, which ones you can live without and where to get cell phone accessories.
Camera Phones
Most new cell phones come equipped with a camera. Many camera phones also have video capabilities, and you can often send videos and pictures to other cell phones, computers and many other mobile devices. Camera phones can differ in photo file type, amount of memory, resolution of photos and more. Learn about the best camera phones, how best to use them, the benefits of having a camera phone over a regular cell phone, cell phone camera photo quality and more.
International Service
For the most part, cell phones will not function correctly in other countries, unless designed to function in this manner. Many cell phone providers offer international service for those who travel. In addition, people who travel abroad can either buy or rent international cell phones for use during vacations or business trips. Read on to see our comparison of buying vs. renting international cell phones and to get information on pricing and terms of international cell phone plans.