Upgrading to a SmartPhone

Upgrading to a SmartPhone

Many users have been abandoning older model phones in favor of these new and powerful devices, especially in the business world. Smartphones are a great way to keep your e-mail and contacts with you on the go instead of carrying around a laptop or other device. If you're thinking about upgrading to a smartphone, consider a few things:

1.  Cost: 
Of course, there is the cost for the new phone plus any upgrade fees. But you may not know that smartphones also require a data plan at an additional cost. This is what allows your phone to connect to the internet and e-mail. Without it, your smartphone won't be as useful out of range of a wifi network. Also, some providers require the purchase of a data plan if you have a smartphone. Check with your carrier to learn about their requirements.

2.  Features: 
Most smartphones come with all sorts of great tools such as GPS, e-mail, internet, and wifi capabilities. If you only make phone calls from your phone, consider if you will take full advantage of the new technology at your disposal or if you only want a device to place calls.

3.  Keyboard: 
It can be difficult to adjust to a new style of keyboard. The iPhone has a virtual keyboard, meaning you must use the keyboard on the touchscreen to input your information. The BlackBerry and some Android phones have a physical keyboard, which may be preferable. Try before you buy!

4.  Brand:
There are quite a few different types of smartphones on the market. The iPhone, BlackBerry, Android and Windows phones are the big names in personal smartphones. Make sure to take a look at the features of each device. The iPhone's user friendly nature may be well suited to somebody new to the technology whereas other users might prefer an Android phone which has more advanced and customizable
features.