Cheap Smartphones and Plans

Understanding the Differences Between Windows Mobile Pocket PC’s and Windows Mobile Smartphones

James Alan Johnson — Thu, 11 Mar 2010 21:03:29 +0000

I’ve often been asked from my customers why they should choose a Pocket PC over a Smartphone or vice versa. Many users don’t realize that each type of device offers unique User interface setups and thus function differently. In this article I’m going to give a quick breakdown of Pocket PC’s vs Smartphone devices. Mainly just a quick look at a few important differences.

Touch Screen Vs One Handed Navigation

Pocket PC’s are touch screen based units, meaning users can either use a stylus or their fingers to navigate throughout their device. This is an important aspect to consider, if your screen size is small the pocket pc device may become bothersome to use as you may have to navigate through hard to press icons to reach your overall destination. On the other hand a Pocket PC is great if the buttons are easy to push, the iPhone 3G or the HTC TyTN II are both great examples of easy to navigate Pocket PC models. Keep in mind you’ll more than likely be relegated to using both hands at the same time.

On the other hand Smartphones are non-touch screen devices that place their focus on one handed navigation, this is often preferred by users who quickly want to pull up menu’s without having to press around on their screens. Smartphone devices such as the new Windows Mobile 6.0 smartphones have home screens that are set up for one handed navigation, you can simply scroll between easy to access menus and in most cases press on a button to access your applications.

Speaking of applications, this is another important area to examine. For instance, Pocket PC third party applications for a Pocket PC will be different in design than a Smartphone Application, the reason being the lack of a touch screen on the Smartphone. Its not to say one is better than the other, just that the smartphone application will require more modular navigating over the Touch screen based program. In most cases one app will not work on both devices, if you are switching over to a Smartphone or Pocket PC you may want to make sure your favorite applications will still be accessible or at least offer a version for your new device.

Finally, Smartphones also tend to lean towards T9 text input, since most, but not all smartphones do not feature a full keyboard, of course the Blackjack series and some HTC devices break from this convention.

Personally I like the flow of Smartphones, I can navigate easily, although it did take some time to get use to. Whatever decision you make i’d definitely suggest looking at the device online or if possible in person to make sure the device is comfortable for you.

Author: James Alan Johnson
Article Source: EzineArticles.com
Provided by: Canada duty

RIM BlackBerry Curve Smartphone – A Change in Blackberry Looks

Vineeta Singh — Wed, 10 Mar 2010 04:47:11 +0000

Blackberry handset range has allured many mobile lovers. Especially RIM BlackBerry Curve Smartphone’s new looks has been liked by all. But looks are not the only thing. Some of the features, which have made RIM BlackBerry phone stand apart from its range are:

o Facility of short media messaging and multimedia messaging
o Organizer application
o Access to email
o Built in flash camera
o 2 megapixel camera
o Video recording( Unlike other phones, this blackberry phone can record snips easily)
o Media player with playback option in variety of formats
o Built in GPS
o Trackball navigation
o Audio mobile streaming facility is further supported by website
o QWERTY keyboard for speedy typing of mails and messages
o Bluetooth
o MP3 ringtones
o 64 MB memory & with the help of microSD card it can be expanded
o Easy connection with Wi-Fi

All these features doesn’t mean it’s going to be a phone with average looks only. Well this phone has stylish looks and is admired by all. This phone is available in red and liquid silver color finish with the highlights of chrome. So depending on your choice you can go in for one that meets your needs promptly. Further, the smooth edges and soft curves, adds zeal to the handset. In short the stylish looks help in managing the professional responsibilities, personalized communication with friends and entertain the user’s senses. Many people are using this phone and found it to a user friendly. Still it is an individual’s decision. Blackberry manufacturers are known for creating strong influence on people.

On seeing this phone, one gets the notion that it is for the people and to a good extent meets today’s and future needs of the people successfully. Seeing the demand of this phone, many online mobile stores are offering great deals on this handset. So you can contact them for more information.

Author: Vineeta Singh
Article Source: EzineArticles.com
Provided by: Excise Tax

Mobile Phones – Will ‘Classic’ Feature Phones Survive the Smartphone Craze?

Nick Wilkins — Mon, 08 Mar 2010 19:38:40 +0000

As we approach the end of Q4 in 2009, the demand for smartphones continues to grow week by week. Dominant ‘classic’ feature phone manufacturer Nokia faces increasing pressure from the smartphone craze, with the likes of Research in Motion, Apple and HTC making their mark.

Finnish giants Nokia have changed tactic however, with their aim to consolidate their portfolio of smartphones. John Strand, CEO of Strand Consult, believes that the line between feature and smartphones has blurred due to a “technology shift” and not because of a tirade to extinguish the need for low-end ‘classic’ feature phones.

Strand admitted: “Only a few customers deliberately purchase smartphones. Most want a reasonably-priced phone with smart features. Whether a customer ends up with a smartphone or a feature phone is a matter of coincidence.”

Nokia mobile phones continue to succeed throughout the marketplace. Its latest smartphone, the Nokia N900 is available on the market as an enhancement on the Nokia N97 and N97 mini. The Maemo-powered handset has now been given an official UK release date.

Low-end ‘classic’ feature phones make up 45% of the Nokia mobile phone sales. Interestingly, Nokia smartphones only take 15% of the total units shipped, but it appears this is a percentage that is on the increase over the last 12 months.

A Nokia spokesperson said: “We expect that in 2010, volume for the overall mobile device market will increase about 10 percent year over year. And we expect the smartphone segment will grow much faster. People can do more with smartphones which offer advanced capabilities and PC-like functionality, and this is definitely more attractive to consumers compared to feature phones.”

That final point is a statement that rings true to the majority of business and regular smartphone users. The additional capabilities of a smartphone and its ability to synchronise with PC applications make it the ideal component. However, the speed in which technology is shifting means there will always be consumers left behind. Casual mobile phone users will continue to use ‘classic’ feature phones despite the quickening growth of the smartphone sector.

Author: Nick Wilkins
Article Source: EzineArticles.com
Provided by: Import duty tariff

Knowing the difference between Cell Phones and Cell Phone Plans Will Save You Time and Money

Declan Tobin — Sun, 07 Mar 2010 04:42:20 +0000

Many people go looking for cell phones without too much emphasis being put on the cell phone plans. Many new users who sign up to the different networks have been sold to rather than choosing the best option the suits them. Research is important. Cell phones & plans can be an expensive commodity.

Types of Cell Phones:

·Camera Cell Phone

·PDA Cell Phone

·GPS Cell Phone

The cell phone itself is not an ongoing expensive. It’s a one off purchase that should last in good working order until you want to upgrade. Your own personal tastes and styles should determine what cell phone you want (not the sales assistant behind the desk). Many phones on today’s market have a built in camera. The camera phone is by far the most popular phone for it’s multifunction use. Not only can you capture that perfect photo you can also send pictures to friends and family or upload to your PC. Many of the camera phones have a zoom in/out option and a rotating lens.

Personal Digital Assistant or PDA cell phones are generally the most expensive of the range. This type of phone has specifications similar to that of the PC. The have their own processor and memory and even have the excellent TFT display. This type of phone is ideal for sales reps or people who like to work from different locations apart from the office. This phone has word processor capabilities.

Global Positioning System or GPS cell phones are proving more and more popular. The newest on the market between the different cell phone types. Many companies who issue company mobile phones especially to sales reps or drivers are diverting to the GPS cell type. The type of phone will give a precise location and whereabouts to the receiver.

Cell phone plans

Cell phone plans are the most important factor when looking to purchase a cell phone for the very first time or changing from one network to another. Before you sign up on a plan you need to ask yourself the following questions:

·Will the phone be used mainly for calling friends or family?

·Is the phone going to be used for business?

·Are you allowed your cell phone on during working hours?

·Will you need your cell for international calls?

·Will you be sending many SMS texts?

It is important to be honest with yourself in answering the above questions, if not you will end up the long-term loser. Remember you will more than likely have to sign a one-year contract with the cell phone carrier, if you think things through now it will only save you money and stress. Do not get taken in from carriers offering you a certain amount of free texts per month. The calls themselves are the expense.

Watch out for the roaming rates

Watch out for the roaming charges. If you intend to travel from state to state or one country to another different carriers have different rates. The can vary dramatically, be warned.

What about the prepaid cell phones?

If you find that you intend using the phone only a minimal amount of time, you should consider a prepaid cell phone. The pre paid option is more expensive per minute during use but it has it’s own advantages such as:

·No contract to be signed

·No monthly line rental

·No service fee

·No credit checks

·No deposit required

·No penalties if you decide never to use it again as you have no contract to begin with

Many people think that you cannot get a prepaid cell phone with built in camera. This is incorrect as many carriers are offering the prepaid phones that are camera mounted. Be careful, sending pictures by text with a prepaid cell to friends or family is much more expensive than with a bill phone. With the prepaid option you know exactly what you are spending at all times. Ideal for those who are on a tight budget.

Where do I get credit for my prepaid cell phone?

It’s very easy. You can top up your credit in most stores. Just tell the assistant what carrier you are with and how much you need to top up for with credit. Many stores have vending machines where you operate the top up yourself. You can also call your cell phone carriers with your credit card and top up from your own home. Always choose a carrier that has a free toll number. There is nothing more annoying than a carrier charging it’s own customers for phone calls.

Author: Declan Tobin
Article Source: EzineArticles.com
Provided by: Creditcard Currency Conversion Fee

A Short History of the Smartphone

James P Martin — Fri, 05 Mar 2010 19:38:47 +0000

Modern technology moves fast and furious, especially when it comes to capabilities of the smartphone. Just what is a “smartphone”? Actually there are no agreed upon or exact definitions for the term. Most would agree however that smartphones do more – much more – than what Alexander Graham Bell first envisioned when he invented the original telephone back in the 1870s.

Definition

The smartphone differs from ordinary mobile phones in that they are capable of advanced functionality because they contain software applications that can be run directly from the phone itself. This software is typically open-source, an advantage that makes adding applications as easy as loading them onto the phone via wireless downloads. Today, these devices are not considered very “smart” unless they can accomodate a datebook/calendar, advanced internet connectivity, photography, music and even video capability.

Origins

IBM was the first to venture into the business of offering consumers a highly advanced mobile phone. In 1993, the company introduced what could be considered the world’s smartphone – simply called Simon. Considered low-end by today’s standard, this first smartphone featured an amazing array of features – email, address book, clock, calendar, note pad, and even the ability to send and receive faxes.

During the mid-90’s, Nokia began to heat things up by introducing its first line of smartphone – the Nokia 9000 series. This phone was not only the first in a series of popular smart phones manufactured by Nokia, they were also the most expensive, coming in at 20-40% more costly than its rivals. The Nokia 9210 was indeed the first real and true smartphone due to its open operating system.

Cutting Edge Smart Phones

The 21st century has spawned smartphones that are incredibly powerful and easy to use. Touch-screen functionality has become the norm and manufacturers such as Apple, Nokia and Research in Motion are furiously vying for the smartphone consumer and business dollar.

Apple changed the smartphone industry with its introduction of the Apple iPhone in 2007. Nokia has since countered with the unveiling of its Nokia XPress Music Phone in 2008. The Nokia 5800 is a touch-screen lovers dream that includes just about every feature a user would want. The handset even comes with millions of downloadable music tracks at no cost. Google recently joined the fray by introducing it Android phone during the same time period.

The Future

Could the smartphone get any smarter than it already is? Sure can! In the not so distant future, virtually everyone on earth will be carrying some type of smartphone – devices that will make today’s handsets pale in comparison. Increased bandwidth and speed will allow phones to be able to handle video in real-time with no problem. In the future, these mobile handsets will be indispensable to daily life, used for a wide array of functions, including consumer purchases, banking, real-time video connectivity, advanced GPS tracking, entertainment and much more.

Author: James P Martin
Article Source: EzineArticles.com
Provided by: Benefits of electric pressure cooker

CECT 599 Touchscreen Dual Sim Shaking SmartPhone – Blowing The iPhone Away

Rae Edwards — Fri, 05 Mar 2010 04:41:37 +0000

If you’ve not already been blown away by the Chinese iPhone clones, you will be once you see them. They have not only brilliantly copied the iPhone’s innovative features, they have drastically improved them with their own upgrades. Simply put, the clones are better than the iPhone and the CECT 599 is no exception.

CECT, the manufacturer of the 599, had several opportunities for improvement and it seized every single one by:

1. making the CECT 599 dual sim. You now have the capability to have two mobile phone numbers without ever need to turn off the phone;

2. having the phone be unlocked so that you aren’t forced to use AT&T if you don’t feel like it;

3. adding a removable battery so you aren’t chained to the manufacturer when the battery dies;

4. adding additional speakers and surround sound (the sound system on this phone rocks); and

5. I’ve saved the best for last. This phone has shake technology. If you want to advance the media (songs, video, wallpaper, photos, etc), you just simply shake the phone. You never even have to look at the phone. You just shake until the media is where you want it to be.

The CECT 599 has all of the features you probably love about the iPhone. You can surf the web, take and play video, play MP3s, and take photos. (It has a really nice camera phone). It also has Bluetooth, a 3.2 inch, high resolution screen and of course, the touch screen everyone is looking for.

The 599 is pretty cheap at between $100 and $130, a steal considering it’s built in, highly innovative features.

Author: Rae Edwards
Article Source: EzineArticles.com
Provided by: Programmable Multi-cooker

Smartphones – The World in Your Pocket

M Salem — Tue, 02 Mar 2010 18:45:47 +0000

Will Smartphones replace the PC?

There is no universally agreed-upon definition as to what constitutes a Smartphone: for some, it is a mobile phone with operating system and other application software, for others, it is a phone with more capabilities and features than a standard mobile phone. No matter how you define it, this technological marvel has come a long way since IBM introduced the first Smartphone, called Simon, in 1992. In the 16 years since Simon was created, the Smartphone has evolved into a hybrid of a mobile phone and a PC.

From the start, these devices have been perfect for business travelers, making it possible to monitor email and keep track of appointments. Now, with Microsoft Windows Mobile software, one can have the convenience of the office on a Smartphone. Applications such as Word, Excel, Outlook, and of course, the internet can be accessed without the hassle of lugging around a laptop. Early versions of the Smartphone used handwriting or touchpad technology to send emails, but many models now come with QWERTY keyboards that provide more accuracy and ease of use.

In addition to the serious, work or school related features that make these devices so indispensable, most come with cameras, the capability to play DVDs and download music, and play games. Of course, of the growing number of available applications are not all about either work or fun and games. GPS Navigation software provides a level of convenience that many people find indispensable these days and, with so many features being added, having GPS Navigation software means much more than only finding one’s way around town.

The issue of security with Smartphones is an important one, given that so many business people use them. Currently, the devices are susceptible to hackers and vulnerable to viruses. Although some feel that these concerns are blown out of proportion by security providers, the industry is working on measures to make Smartphones more secure.

Another aspect that merits attention is the development of a variable geometry screen, which would be of benefit to many users. However, as the technology continues to explode, there will surely be new designs and features created to enhance the physical comfort and increase the efficiency of Smartphone users. Advances in the design and appearance of the device, along with more and more available software and programming options will surely increase the appeal of Smartphones to a wider audience.

Will Smartphones replace the PC? It certainly seems possible that, at the least, Smartphones will continue to grow in popularity. Their incredibly convenient size and versatility of design make them a favorite among business travelers, who tend to help dictate the direction of this wide-open area of technology. And, with the constantly growing availability of software applications, like Microsoft Windows Mobile and GPS Navigation systems, it would seem that eventually, there will be nothing a Laptop can do that cannot be accomplished with a Smartphone!

Author: M Salem
Article Source: EzineArticles.com
Provided by: Electric Pressure Cooker

How Can You Save Money on Cell Phone Plans?

Daryl Plaza — Sun, 28 Feb 2010 04:40:14 +0000

Most people already have a cell phone, or are planning on buying one soon. Most people also want to save money while still getting the best cell phone plans they can. Most cell phone plans are based on your usage, so figuring out how you’ll use your phone is one way to save a little every month. It can take some work on your part to save money on a cell phone plan, but in the end, it’ll be worth it. Here are a few tips for people who’d like to find a less expensive plan without giving up useful features.

Compare Providers and Plans

When you decide what cell phone you want, one of the first things you’ll have to do is choose a provider. There are quite a few available, including US Cellular, Vreizon Wireless, Sprint, T-Mobile, Nextel and Alltel. You’ll want to compare and review the plans and phones available from each carrier to help save money. Consider these things when you make your package and provider comparisons:

1.Rollover minutes are minutes that you don’t use in one month, but which can be carried over into the following month. These normally last a year, and can keep you from wasting money on unused minutes. Find out if a plan you’re considering allows you to keep rollover minutes.

2. Text messaging is getting a lot more popular. This means that the exact text messaging features offered by your provider are important. Find out if you pay a set amount per text message you send, have a flat fee for a certain number of messages, or unlimited text messaging. A good text message plan is vital if you use this form of communication often.

3. Evening and weekend minutes can allow you to save a reasonably large amount of money. Many plans offer free minutes on nights and weekends. If you spend most of your time on the phone during this period, be sure your plan offers free evening and weekend minutes.

4. Unlimited mobile to mobile services will let you talk to anyone else who’s in the same network. Usually there’s a small flat fee associated with this feature, but if people you talk to regularly are in the same network, you could save some money but using it.

Get Rid of Unneeded Extras

One more way to save money on your cellular plan is to get rid of extras you don’t need. Here are just a few things that might be included in your plan that aren’t often used.

· Roadside assistance seems like a great idea, but many people go overboard. There’s no point in having roadside assistance on your cell phone plan if you also carry AAA coverage, or have other plans that will help you if your car breaks down.

· Insurance on your cell phone can be an unnecessary expense. If you have a fancy, expensive cell phone, you may need the coverage in case it’s damaged or lost. However, if you’re just using a basic phone and haven’t had problems in the past, you’ll quickly pay more than the cost of your phone to insure it.

Try Using Prepaid Cellular Phone Plans

Prepaid cellular phone plans are great if you don’t use a lot of minutes, or aren’t sure when you’ll be using your minutes. If you’re using a prepaid plan, you’ll never have to deal with a contract or a monthly charge. You pay as you go, refilling your phone whenever it runs out of money. Many major cell phone providers have started offering this kind of service to people who don’t need or want a regular cell phone plan.

People who have bad credit, or can’t afford a high payment up front can also stand to benefit from using prepaid cellular phone plans. You’ll be in control of your usage and costs, making it impossible to accidentally run up a high bill. Your phone will warn you when you’re about to run out of money. You can then refill it, either by buying a card with minutes, or by calling into a special number.

Family Cell Phone Plans Can Help Save Money

If your whole family uses a cell phone, buying a family plan can reduce your rates. There are a number of different mobile phone plans offered by major companies that are designed specifically for families. It’s almost always cheaper to use a family plan than to buy a separate plan for everyone. You may even be able to get a discount on the family plan’s already low rate, allowing you to save even more. Many plans allow you to call everyone in your family for free, making it easy to contact parents or children if required.

There are many different ways to save on your cell phone plan. Start by comparing plans and companies to help reduce your rates, then pare down any extras you don’t use. If you’re not a routine cell phone user, consider switching to a prepaid plan to save some more money, and remember that family plans can help if you need to get phones for a number of different people in your household. Just use these tips, and you’ll have an easy time saving money on cell phone plans.

Author: Daryl Plaza
Article Source: EzineArticles.com
Provided by: How Electric Pressure Cookers Work

Explore New Horizons With Cheap Contract Mobile Phones At Vodafone

Jacob Marshal — Sun, 28 Feb 2010 03:47:15 +0000

The craze for mobile phones can be sensed among all levels of users– from the grand old man to the cutie youngsters. With the growing popularity of mobile phones a lot many deals have emerged in the market to enable consumers with better services.

With the entry of more and more companies, mobile phones now are quite affordable-no doubt more sophisticated than ever. Today with lot many contract deals available in the market it has become much easier for the users to buy sophisticated and expensive phones in a very cheap price. In Europe alone, major network providers like Vodafone, 3 Mobile, Orange, O2, Virgin and T Mobile have introduced numerous cheap phone deals like 12 months free line rental, 18 months half line rental, SIM free and pay as you go offers for enhancing communication.

One major Network service provider Vodafone with equity interests in more than 25 countries and associated in almost 40 countries has created a strong revolution in the world of mobile communication. Today almost with every newly launched phone, be it the elegant Nokia N-series smartphones or the Sony Ericsson Walkman series music phones cheap contract deals is offered. With contract deals like 12 month free line rental not only the users are exempted from paying rentals for a certain period but they also get a mobile phone like Blackberry Curve 8310, Motorola V3i, HTC S620 or the fashionable LG shine completely for free. Above all, these cheap contract phones with Vodafone brings along various advantages, such as discounted or free talk time, free texts, free music download, and free games downloads.

Usually the consumers of UK are quite positive about the contract deals with Vodafone. Cheap contract mobile phones with Vodafone not only make them proud owners of excellent and costly phones like Nokia N95 8GB or glamorous Samsung U600 Pink, but also makes them tension free from credit expiry (at least for a certain period). On the other way round, these phones without a contract deal would have been highly-expensive.

Most of the contract phones with Vodafone are consumer-centric and cost-effective. As a network provider too Vodafone has been triumphantly making progress connecting millions of customers worldwide. These cheap contract phones also brings along with it lot many attractive free gifts, cashbacks and other incentives. So what else a consumer need– a cheap contract phone with Vodafone network, Good customer service, smooth connectivity and a gorgeous mobile phone in a cheap price!

Author: Jacob Marshal
Article Source: EzineArticles.com
Provided by: Programmable pressure cooker

SmartPhones Let Your Small Business Connect from Anywhere

Nick Pegley — Sat, 27 Feb 2010 17:55:33 +0000

Ready to trade in your cell phone and PDA for a Smartphone? Let’s start with the basics…

What’s a Smartphone?

A Smartphone is your cell phone and PDA (Portable Data Assistant) joined, allowing verbal communication by phone and visual by email and text messaging. Other capabilities include Internet, fax, and data transfers between your office computer and the Smartphone. There are pros and cons to switching over, just like anything else.

The Pros

With just a Smartphone, there’s one less item to carry or forget. You’ve got Internet access for directions, email or quick info. Scaled-down versions of certain computer applications are available. By using a keyboard instead of a phone pad, it becomes easier to type long messages.

The Cons

The initial cost is approximately three times more than a regular mobile phone (including additional fees for network service access). If you’re set on a small mobile phone, the larger Smartphone may feel a bit bulky. It could take a while to get used to using it, and text-heavy messages can be a bit difficult to read on the smaller. Finding your way around and understanding all of the features has a bit of a learning curve. So now that you’re ready to invest in a Smartphone, which one will you buy and what factors affect this decision?

Service Contract

Before deciding what hardware to purchase, carefully examine the plans that various service providers are offering. If purchasing the hardware and plan together, you may get good discounts for a package plan. Make sure your plan covers usage since charges can be a costly lesson learned. You will want to know exactly what you will pay before the bill arrives.

Select a Model

After finding a plan you like, your selection of a model will be down to just a few. Which features can you live without? An MP3 player and camera may be nice features to have, but big files may fill up your memory and browsing the Internet could be slow.

Test the Smartphone

Allow time to play and window shop, to make sure your Smartphone is comfortable to use. If not, you may consider adding a Bluetooth device. Feel the weight of it too. It’s great to have plenty of memory, but if the device is too cumbersome to carry with you then you won’t use it. See how things are organized on the phone. Does its organization make sense to you? Can you to find what you’re looking for? You may want to consider purchasing software to better organize it to your style.

Sync Your Smartphone

Evaluate the options for software to handle synchronizing contact and other data with your or your organizations existing systems. While there is free software available on the Web, the current standard is Microsoft Windows Mobile for Smartphones 5.0. For a review of the Smartphones that come packaged with Microsoft Windows Mobile, visit the Microsoft website. Consulting with your IT service provider is wise, to resolve any issues there may be with integrating the new systems.

Many businesses are now seeing the opportunity in using a Smartphone for mobile workers. If you travel frequently, consider a solution that could let you leave your heavy laptop behind. The time has come.

Author: Nick Pegley
Article Source: EzineArticles.com
Provided by: PCB Prototype & Manufacturing