Buying a Smartphone
A smartphones’s operating system (OS) dictates its basic features and what third-party software you can install. Windows Mobile 6.1 has the familiar look and feel of Windows and is the best option for Microsoft Exchange email. It also allows you to buy software from numerous online providers.
The iPhone uses an OS based on Apple’s OS X. Although very slick, it won’t run any software that hasn’t been approved by Apple. Google has rececently launched its open-source Android mobile OS, which should benefit from a wide range of freely available software.
All smartphones come with a colour screen, but look out for our the quality of the screen if you are viewing photos or video clips.
Cameras are common in smartphones, but resolutions are limited to around 8 megapixels.
Many of the latest handsets have touchcreen interfaces, but a keyboard can be more suitable for entering text quickly and accurately. Windows Mobile and Palm OS have handwriting recognition features for stylus based smartphones, once you get used to these, you can enter text very quickly.
Be careful when choosing a mobile contract. Look for a contract with a large data allowance if you want to use the internet regularly; note that all unlimited allowances actually have caps on usage.
Built in WiFI can help you avoid high data charges by connectingy to the Internet using wireless hotspots, or via your router when at home.
Bluetooth compatibility can allow your alptop to connect wirelessly to your smartphone for web access on the move, and you can synchronise contacts using the same connection.
We have a comprehensive section on mobile phones with practical articles on…..Smartphone buyers guide…Mobile deals with free gifts…Pay As You Go deals...Mobile Phone Manufacturers….Mobile Phone Networks….Defining your mobile phone and tariff requirements….A to Z of Mobile Phone Features……Mobile Phone FAQ’s
