The iPhone drives a lot of interest in the cell phone market these days. And newly arriving on the market is the much anticipated Palm Pre from Sprint. So, for those customers who need the full-featured power of a smartphone, we compare four strong PDA alternatives to the iPhone and Palm Pre.

	iPhone 3GS	Palm Pre	BlackBerry Curve 8900	BlackBerry Storm	BlackBerry Tour	BlackBerry Flip
Camera Megapizels	3 MP	3 MP	3.2 MP	3.2 MP	3.2 MP	2 MP
Applications Available	App Store	Sprint Digital Lounge	BlackBerry App World	BlackBerry App World	BlackBerry App World	BlackBerry App World
Productivity Apps *	YES	YES	YES	YES	YES	YES
Entertainment Apps ++	YES	YES	YES	YES	YES	YES
Voice-dialing	YES	NO	YES	YES	NO	YES
Music Options	iTunes	Sprint Music Store	MP3	V CAST with Rhapsody	MP3	V CAST with Rhapsody
Memory Card Slot	NO	NO	YES	YES	YES	YES
Removable Battery	NO	YES	YES	YES	YES	YES
Network	HSDPA/EDGE	EV-DO Rev. A	EDGE	EV-DO Rev. A	EV-DO Rev. A / HSDPA	GPRS/EDGE
Top Data Speed	7.2 mbps	3.1 mbps	2.4 mbps	3.1 mbps	3.6 mbps	2.4 mbps
Weight	4.8 oz.	4.8 oz.	3.9 oz.	5.5 oz.	4.6 oz.	3.6 oz.
Dimensions	4.5" x 2.4" x 0.5"	3.9" x 2.3" x 0.7"	2.4" x 4.3" x 0.5"	4.4" x 2.5" x 0.6"	4.4" x 2.4" x 0.6"	4.0" x 2.0" x 0.7"
Price	$199 for 16 GB version or $299 for 32 GB version with a new account and 2-year activation with select AT&T iPhone plans	$99.99 after instant discount with a new Sprint account	FREE after instant discount with a new AT&T or T-Mobile account	FREE after instant discount with a new Verizon Wireless account	$29.99 after instant discount with a new Verizon Wireless account $99.99 after instant discount with a new Sprint account	FREE after instant discount with a new Verizon Wireless or T-Mobile account
Service Plans (unlimited)	$99.99 – voice; $30.00 – data; $20.00 – messaging	$99.99 – voice, data, and messaging	AT&T: $99.99 – voice; $30.00 – data; $20.00 – messaging; T-Mobile: $59.99 – voice; $30.00 – data; $10.00 – messaging	$149.99 – voice, data, and messaging	Verizon: $149.99 – voice, data, and messaging; Sprint: $99.99 – voice, data, and messaging	Verizon: $149.99 – voice, data, and messaging; T-Mobile: $59.99 – voice; $30.00 – data; $10.00 – messaging
Total Cost over 24 months (excludes taxes)	$3,800 for 16 GB or $3,900 for 32 GB	$2,500	AT&T: $3,600; T-Mobile: $2,400	$3,600	Verizon: $3,630; Sprint: $2,500	Verizon: $3,600; T-Mobile: $2,400
See More Phones	AT&T	Sprint	AT&T T-Mobile	Verizon Wireless	Verizon Wireless Sprint	T-Mobile Verizon Wireless

*Productivity Apps include, but are not limited to, mobile banking, instant messenger, shopping, ReCall and TurboPasswords.

++Entertainment Apps include, but are not limited to, Facebook, MySpace, Twitter, Pandora Radio, YouTube, Need for Speed and Fandango.

Wirefly is the Internet’s #1 authorized dealer for AT&T Wireless, Sprint, T-Mobile and Verizon Wireless. This offer is fulfilled by Simplexity, LLC, an authorized dealer for Alltel Wireless, AT&T, Sprint, T-Mobile and Verizon Wireless. This offer is only available with select service plans and a two-year subscriber agreement, and is subject to eligibility check by Alltel Wireless, AT&T, Sprint, T-Mobile and Verizon Wireless, including credit approval or deposit for new customers. Discounted phone offer applies to primary and second lines only. Discount will be invalid if the rate plan is changed to a lower monthly service rate, or if this equipment is transferred to another line of service. Not all US markets are served by Alltel Wireless, AT&T, Sprint, T-Mobile and Verizon Wireless. Activation and early termination fees apply. Additional restrictions apply. See full offer for details. Offer valid for a limited time only.

© 2009 AT&T Intellectual Property. All rights reserved. AT&T, the AT&T logo and all other AT&T marks contained herein are trademarks of AT&T Intellectual Property and/or AT&T affiliated companies. All other marks contained herein are the property of their respective owners.

Verizon Wireless Surcharges (incl. Fed. Univ. Svc. of 9.5% of interstate & int¹l telecom charges (varies quarterly), 7¢ Regulatory & 85¢ Administrative/line/mo., & others by area) are not taxes (details: 1-888-684-1888); gov¹t taxes & our surcharges could add 4% – 36% to your bill. Activation fee/line: $35 ($25 for secondary Family SharePlan lines w/ 2 yr Agmts). Verizon Wireless and the Verizon Wireless logos are trademarks of Verizon Trademark Services LLC © 2009 Verizon Wireless.

	iPhone 3GS	Verizon Wireless Droid	T-Mobile Cliq	Sprint Moment	T-Mobile G1	Verizon Wireless Droid Eris
Customize Settings	Limited	YES	YES	YES	YES	YES
App Store	App Store	Android Market	Android Market	Android Market	Android Market	Android Market
Multitasking	NO	YES	YES	YES	YES	YES
Keyboard	Touchscreen only	Touch + Slide-out QWERTY	Touch + Slide-out QWERTY	Touch + Slide-out QWERTY	Touch + Slide-out QWERTY	Touchscreen only
GPS Navigation	AT&T Navigator – Monthly Fee	Google Maps Navigation – FREE	TeleNav GPS Navigator – Monthly Fee	Sprint Navigation – Monthly Fee	TeleNav GPS Navigator – Monthly Fee	Verizon Navigator – Monthly Fee
Camera Megapixels	3 MP	5 MP	5 MP	3.2 MP	3.2 MP	5 MP
Removable Battery	NO	YES	YES	YES	YES	YES
Weight	4.8 oz.	6.0 oz.	5.6 oz.	6.4 oz.	5.6 oz.	4.2 oz.
Dimensions	4.5″ x 2.4″ x 0.5″	2.4″ x 4.6 ” x 0.5″	2.3″ x 4.5″ x 0.6″	4.6″ x 2.3″ x 0.6″	4.6″ x 2.2″ x 0.6″	4.5″ x 2.2″ x 0.5″
Price	$199.99 for 16GB version or $299 for 32GB version with a new account and 2-year activation with select AT&T iPhone plans	$149.99 after instant discount with a new Verizon Wireless account	$99.99 after instant discount with a new T-Mobile account	$149.99 after instant discount with a new Sprint account	$97.99 after instant discount with a new T-Mobile account	$49.99 after instant discount with a new Verizon Wireless account
Service Plans (unlimited)	$149.99 – voice, data, and messaging	$149.99 – voice, data, and messaging	$99.99 – voice, data, and messaging	$99.99 – voice, data, and messaging	$99.99 – voice, data, and messaging	$149.99 – voice, data, and messaging
Total Cost over 24 months excludes taxes	$3,800 or $3,900	$3,750	$2,500	$2,550	$2,500	$3,650
See More Phones	AT&T	Verizon Wireless	T-Mobile	Sprint	T-Mobile	Verizon Wireless

Wirefly is the Internet’s #1 authorized dealer for AT&T Wireless, Sprint, T-Mobile and Verizon Wireless. This offer is fulfilled by Simplexity, LLC, an authorized dealer for Alltel Wireless, AT&T, Sprint, T-Mobile and Verizon Wireless. This offer is only available with select service plans and a two-year subscriber agreement, and is subject to eligibility check by Alltel Wireless, AT&T, Sprint, T-Mobile and Verizon Wireless, including credit approval or deposit for new customers. Discounted phone offer applies to primary and second lines only. Discount will be invalid if the rate plan is changed to a lower monthly service rate, or if this equipment is transferred to another line of service. Not all US markets are served by Alltel Wireless, AT&T, Sprint, T-Mobile and Verizon Wireless. Activation and early termination fees apply. Additional restrictions apply. See full offer for details. Offer valid for a limited time only.

© 2009 AT&T Intellectual Property. All rights reserved. AT&T, the AT&T logo and all other AT&T marks contained herein are trademarks of AT&T Intellectual Property and/or AT&T affiliated companies. All other marks contained herein are the property of their respective owners.

Verizon Wireless Surcharges (incl. Fed. Univ. Svc. of 9.5% of interstate & int¹l telecom charges (varies quarterly), 7¢ Regulatory & 85¢ Administrative/line/mo., & others by area) are not taxes (details: 1-888-684-1888); gov¹t taxes & our surcharges could add 4% – 36% to your bill. Activation fee/line: $35 ($25 for secondary Family SharePlan lines w/ 2 yr Agmts). Verizon Wireless and the Verizon Wireless logos are trademarks of Verizon Trademark Services LLC © 2009 Verizon Wireless.

We compare five formidable challengers to the iPhone’s throne atop the touch-screen cell phone universe, including the new Storm 2 from Verizon. All of these alternatives offer big, beautiful touch displays that allow complete control over your phone’s features, and support a full suite of online applications like Facebook, Flickr, Google Maps and YouTube.

	iPhone 3GS	Palm Pre	Samsung Impression	Samsung Highlight	BlackBerry Storm 2	HTC Imagio
Camera Megapixels	3 MP	3 MP	3 MP	3 MP	3.2 MP	5 MP
Applications Available	App Store	Sprint Digital Lounge	Media Mall		BlackBerry App World	Windows Marketplace
Productivity Apps *	YES	YES	YES	YES	YES	YES
Entertainment Apps ++	YES	YES	YES	YES	YES	YES
Voice-dialing	YES	NO	NO	YES	YES	YES
Music Options	iTunes	Sprint Music Store	AT&T Mobile Music	MP3	V CAST with Rhapsody	V CAST with Rhapsody
Memory Card Slot	NO	NO	YES	YES	YES	YES
Removable Battery	NO	YES	YES	YES	YES	YES
Network	HSDPA/EDGE	EV-DO Rev. A	HSDPA	GPRS/Edge	EV-DO Rev. A	EV-DO Rev. A
Top Data Speed	7.2 mbps HSDPA	3.1 mbps	3.6 mbps	3.6 mbps	3.1 mbps	3.1 mbps
Weight	4.8 oz.	4.8 oz.	5.3 oz.	3.7 oz.	5.5 oz.	5.2 oz.
Dimensions	4.5″ x 2.4″ x 0.5″	3.9″ x 2.3″ x 0.7″	4.5″ x 2.3″ x 0.6″	4.2″ x 2.1″ x 0.5″	4.4″ x 2.5″ x 0.6″	4.7″ x 2.4″ x 0.6″
Price	$199.99 for 16GB version or $299 for 32GB version with a new account and 2-year activation with select AT&T iPhone plans	$99.99 after instant discount with a new Sprint PCS account	FREE after instant discount with a new AT&T account	FREE after instant discount with a new T-Mobile account	$99.99 after instant discount with a new Verizon Wireless account	$199.99 after instant discount with a new Verizon Wireless account
Service Plans (unlimited)	$149.99 – voice, data, and messaging	$99.99 – voice, data, and messaging	$149.99 – voice, date, and messaging	$59.99 – voice; $10.00 – data; $10.00 – messaging	$149.99 – voice, data, and messaging	$149.99 – voice, data, and messaging
Total Cost over 24 months excludes taxes	$3,800 for 16 GB or $3,900 for 32 GB plus tax	$2,500	$3,600	$1,920	$3,700	$3,800
See More Phones	AT&T Wireless	Sprint	T-Mobile	AT&T Wireless	Verizon Wireless	Verizon Wireless

*Productivity Apps include, but are not limited to, mobile banking, instant messenger, shopping, ReCall and TurboPasswords.

++Entertainment Apps include, but are not limited to, Facebook, MySpace, Twitter, Pandora Radio, YouTube, Need for Speed and Fandango.

Wirefly is the Internet’s #1 authorized dealer for Alltel Wireless, AT&T, Sprint, T-Mobile and Verizon Wireless. This offer is fulfilled by Simplexity, LLC, an authorized dealer for Alltel Wireless, AT&T, Sprint, T-Mobile and Verizon Wireless. This offer is only available with select service plans and a two-year subscriber agreement, and is subject to eligibility check by Alltel Wireless, AT&T, Sprint, T-Mobile and Verizon Wireless, including credit approval or deposit for new customers. Discounted phone offer applies to primary and second lines only. Discount will be invalid if the rate plan is changed to a lower monthly service rate, or if this equipment is transferred to another line of service. Not all US markets are served by Alltel Wireless, AT&T, Sprint, T-Mobile and Verizon Wireless. Activation and early termination fees apply. Additional restrictions apply. See full offer for details. Offer valid for a limited time only.

© 2009 AT&T Intellectual Property. All rights reserved. AT&T, the AT&T logo and all other AT&T marks contained herein are trademarks of AT&T Intellectual Property and/or AT&T affiliated companies. All other marks contained herein are the property of their respective owners.

Verizon Wireless Surcharges (incl. Fed. Univ. Svc. of 9.5% of interstate & int¹l telecom charges (varies quarterly), 7¢ Regulatory & 85¢ Administrative/line/mo., & others by area) are not taxes (details: 1-888-684-1888); gov¹t taxes & our surcharges could add 4% – 36% to your bill. Activation fee/line: $35 ($25 for secondary Family SharePlan lines w/ 2 yr Agmts). Verizon Wireless and the Verizon Wireless logos are trademarks of Verizon Trademark Services LLC © 2009 Verizon Wireless.

The introduction of the iPhone last summer was, arguably, one of the defining moments in the evolution of the cell phone industry. In the year since, the buzz surrounding the iPhone has hardly waned, even as impressive competitors pop up on the landscape. And, as exciting as the iPhone is, it remains a relatively expensive option tied to a specific carrier. Because of that exclusivity agreement, Wirefly is restricted from offering the iPhone to our customers. But there are alternatives . . .

If you’re excited about the G1, but are interested in learning more and investigating other options, we’ve compiled a list of equivalent high-end cell phones and present them here. These phones share many of the same features and flexibility seen in the Google phone:

Click here for the Wireless Wizard: Compare cell phone plans

	G1 with Google	Palm Pre	Samsung Impression	Samsung Highlight	BlackBerry Storm	HTC Imagio
Camera Megapixels	3.2 MP	3 MP	3 MP	3 MP	3.2 MP	5 MP
Applications Available	Android Market	Sprint Digital Lounge	Media Mall		BlackBerry App World	Windows Marketplace
Productivity Apps *	YES	YES	YES	YES	YES	YES
Entertainment Apps ++	YES	YES	YES	YES	YES	YES
Voice-dialing	YES	NO	NO	YES	YES	YES
Music Options	MP3, WMA	Sprint Music Store	AT&T Mobile Music	MP3	V CAST with Rhapsody	V CAST with Rhapsody
Memory Card Slot	YES	NO	YES	YES	YES	YES
Removable Battery	YES	YES	YES	YES	YES	YES
Network	GPRS/Edge	EV-DO Rev. A	HSDPA	GPRS/Edge	EV-DO Rev. A	EV-DO Rev. A
Top Data Speed	3.6 mbps	3.1 mbps	3.6 mbps	3.6 mbps	3.1 mbps	3.1 mbps
Weight	5.6 oz.	4.8 oz.	5.3 oz.	3.7 oz.	5.5 oz.	5.2 oz.
Dimensions	4.6" x 2.2" x 0.6"	3.9" x 2.3" x 0.7"	4.5" x 2.3" x 0.6"	4.2" x 2.1" x 0.5"	4.4" x 2.5" x 0.6"	4.7" x 2.4" x 0.6"
Price	$97.99 after instant discount with a new T-Mobile account	$99.99 after instant discount with a new Sprint account	FREE after instant discount with a new AT&T account	FREE after instant discount with a new T-Mobile account	$99.99 after instant discount with a new Verizon Wireless account	$199.99 after instant discount with a new Verizon Wireless account
Service Plans (unlimited)	$59.99 – voice; $30.00 – data; $10.00 – messaging	$99.99 – voice, data, and messaging	$99.99 – voice; $30.00 – data; $20.00 – messaging	$59.99 – voice; $10.00 – data; $10.00 – messaging	$149.99 – voice, data, and messaging	$149.99 – voice, data, and messaging
Total Cost over 24 months excludes taxes	$2,500	$2,500	$3,600	$1,920	$3,700	$3,800
See More Phones	T-Mobile	Sprint	T-Mobile	AT&T	Verizon Wireless	Verizon Wireless

*Productivity Apps include, but are not limited to, mobile banking, instant messenger, shopping, ReCall and TurboPasswords.

++Entertainment Apps include, but are not limited to, Facebook, MySpace, Twitter, Pandora Radio, YouTube, Need for Speed and Fandango.

Wirefly is the Internet’s #1 authorized dealer for Alltel Wireless, AT&T, Sprint, T-Mobile and Verizon Wireless. This offer is fulfilled by Simplexity, LLC, an authorized dealer for Alltel Wireless, AT&T, Sprint, T-Mobile and Verizon Wireless. This offer is only available with select service plans and a two-year subscriber agreement, and is subject to eligibility check by Alltel Wireless, AT&T, Sprint, T-Mobile and Verizon Wireless, including credit approval or deposit for new customers. Discounted phone offer applies to primary and second lines only. Discount will be invalid if the rate plan is changed to a lower monthly service rate, or if this equipment is transferred to another line of service. Not all US markets are served by Alltel Wireless, AT&T, Sprint, T-Mobile and Verizon Wireless. Activation and early termination fees apply. Additional restrictions apply. See full offer for details. Offer valid for a limited time only.

© 2009 AT&T Intellectual Property. All rights reserved. AT&T, the AT&T logo and all other AT&T marks contained herein are trademarks of AT&T Intellectual Property and/or AT&T affiliated companies. All other marks contained herein are the property of their respective owners.

Verizon Wireless Surcharges (incl. Fed. Univ. Svc. of 9.5% of interstate & int¹l telecom charges (varies quarterly), 7¢ Regulatory & 85¢ Administrative/line/mo., & others by area) are not taxes (details: 1-888-684-1888); gov¹t taxes & our surcharges could add 4% – 36% to your bill. Activation fee/line: $35 ($25 for secondary Family SharePlan lines w/ 2 yr Agmts). Verizon Wireless and the Verizon Wireless logos are trademarks of Verizon Trademark Services LLC © 2009 Verizon Wireless.

The most popular applications in the Android Market are constantly changing as new applications are introduced, but Wirefly’s editors have selected some of the most innovative and popular applications available to Android users to give you a better idea of what’s out there. Of course, this is only a small selection of the thousands of applications available for the Android platform.

Bank of America Mobile Banking

Cost: FREE

With Bank of America’s Android application, customers can check their available balance, transfer funds, and even pay bills while on-the-go. The application will also locate the nearest Bank of America ATM based on the device’s GPS location. Expect mobile banking applications from most major banks in the near future.

Facebook for Android

Cost: FREE

Take Facebook with you wherever you go. Facebook for Android allows you to update your status, view your newsfeed, view friend’s walls and profiles, and share photos and links.

Google Maps

Cost: FREE

It’s all the power of Google Maps – right on your Android phone. Google Maps uses your GPS location to provide driving, walking and public transportation directions. You can also lookup nearby businesses and restaurants, read reviews, check out Google’s Street View for supported addresses, and search with your voice.

Google Sky Map

Cost: FREE

Another Google innovation – Google Sky Map – allows you to use your phone’s GPS, accelerometer, and compass to provide a detailed star map for your location. Android users find planets, stars and constellations by pointing their phone toward the sky.

Layar Reality Browser

Cost: FREE

Layar is one of the first so-called ‘augmented reality applications.’ The application overlays real-time information on top of live images from your device’s on-board camera. Layar features a variety of informational ‘layers’ from various companies and web-based services including a Yelp! layer that displays a 3D view of nearby restaurants and a Tweetmondo layer that displays where Twitter users tweeted from in your area.

Meebo IM

Cost: FREE

Meebo provides Android users integrated mobile instant messaging services from most major messaging platforms. The application supports AIM, MSN, Yahoo!, MySpace IM, Google Talk, Jabber and ICQ. Users can create a Meebo account, and choose to have their chat history automatically saved and accessible at any time on Meebo’s website.

Movies by Flixster

Cost: FREE

Movies by Flixter offers show times for local theaters, links to theatre maps and phone numbers, high-quality movie trailers, movie reviews from Rotten Tomatoes and more. Future versions of Flixster are expected to offer the ability to purchase movie tickets directly from the application.

Shazam

Cost: FREE

If you frequently hear a song you like on the radio or during an evening out and wish you could easily figure out what it is, Shazam may become your favorite Android application. Shazam will listen to a small portion of a song and identify and store the artist’s name and song title.

ShopSavvy

Cost: FREE

ShopSavvy uses the on-board camera on your Android device to scan product barcodes and then scours the internet for the best prices online and at local stores. This application may redefine the term ‘shopping around’ for you.

The Weather Channel

Cost: FREE

The Weather Channel’s official Android app provides much more than just a basic weather forecast. The application features customizable weather and radar maps, streaming video forecasts, and weather widgets and notifications.

All of these applications can be downloaded directly from the Android Market on your Android device.

Maturing in this day and age, today’s teens are accustomed to being in constant contact and having instant access to information. As more and more of their peers get their first cell phones, teens already highly concerned with fitting in may feel particularly left behind without a cell phone of their own. As their children near their early teens and start asking (perhaps begging may be a more appropriate term?) for their first cell phone, parents have a decision to make based on what they think is best for their children and their family.

Kids and Cell Phones: What Parents Like

On one hand, parents see a cell phone as a valuable way to be in touch with their children in case of emergencies big and small. If your daughter’s soccer practice is running late or if you are stuck in traffic on your way to picking her up, a cell phone can let her reach you or vice versa. A cell phone equipped with GPS technology also enables you to monitor your kid’s whereabouts at all times.

Many parents also see a cell phone for kids as a valuable tool to help teach their children how to handle an additional responsibility. The size of the wireless bill, the list of phone calls and whether the child stays in touch when he or she is supposed to are all things that can be used by parents to teach accountability.

The Main Concerns About Getting Kids Their Own Cell Phones

On the liability side, a cell phone can give children freedom to communicate with anyone, posing similar risks as the Internet–text messaging from strangers, cyber bullying, calls to or from unwanted parties or simply excessive distractions. Then there is the more mundane factor of cost: since children do not yet fully understand the value of money, they can easily rack up cell-phone bills of jaw-dropping proportion–unless some sensible precautions are put into place. Some children also have an unfortunate tendency to misplace things.

Cell Phones for Kids: Rules and Responsibility

So, is it thumbs up or thumbs down? As with most issues pertaining to parenting and education, there is no one-size-fits-all answer. Parents need to consider whether their child is ready to take on the responsibility of a wireless phone, while being themselves prepared for the task of educating and monitoring the child on cell phone rules.

Parents who are leaning towards buying a cell phone for their child way may find the following suggestions helpful:

• Be completely upfront with the child about cell phone rules and etiquette (e.g. no texting or talking in class and at the dinner table)
• Talk with children about the costs of cell phone use, and consider having children pay for part of their phone bills or for overages over an agreed upon amount
• Limit the cell phone’s capabilities to exclude the Internet, video games, text messaging or other features that may be too distracting or costly
• Closely monitor the bill so as to always know who the child is communicating with
• Select a phone specifically designed to have the features both children and parents want

Ready to start looking?

Have you decided to take the plunge and start looking around for a cell phone that will make both you and your children happy? We’ve compiled a list of some of the best phones for kids complete with hands-on videos and a feature comparisons chart.

Color main display

A cell phone can have one or two displays. Phones with two displays have a main one–generally the one to the inside–and an auxiliary one on the outside.

With the greatest majority of phones available today, the main display is in color. A standard color main display shows around 65,000 colors, while displays of more advanced models can show as many of 264,000 colors.

External display

Clamshell phones–also called flip-phones–normally have an auxiliary display to the outside. This is usually smaller than the main display, and may be either in color or black and white (monochrome).

The purpose of a cell phone’s external display is to show the user information like time, caller ID, battery life, etc. without opening the handset.

Color

A growing number of cell phones are becoming available in colors other than gray or black, so as to better fit the taste and the lifestyle of the users.

Style

Applied to cell phones, the word “style” refers to whether or not (and how) the unit opens. Today’s cell phone fall into four main style categories:

1. Candy-bar phones: phones that are more or less rectangular in shape and do not open
2. Flip-phones (or clamshell phones): phones that open and close like a clamshell, through a hinge located above the keypad
3. Slider phones: phones that open by sliding the cover and exposing the keypad
4. Swivel phones: phones that open by swiveling the cover away from the keypad
5. Touch screen. Some larger cell phones allow the user to operate the unit by touching the screen–either with a finger or with a special stylus. Touch-screen operations can range from navigating the phone’s various menus to writing as one would do on a palm pilot.

Speakerphone

Most cell phones on the market today feature a speakerphone, which is a built-in microphone and loudspeaker that allow the user to carry out a conversation or to listen to messages without bringing the unit up to the ear.

There are two levels of sophistication of this feature. More advanced cell phone models allow more than one talker to speak at the same time, while on basic models only one talker can speak at a time.

Also, some speakerphones are stereo–especially on phones that feature FM radio or music-playing capability.

Push to talk

This is a communication feature that works like a walkie-talkie.

Voice dialing

Voice-dialing enables you to dial your phone by voice command (e.g. Call home/Call Jennifer/Call 911/Call 555-1212).

There are two levels of sophistication of voice-dialing. The most basic is requires that you “train” your cell phone to recognize the specific way you pronounce your entries. This usually requires you to speak the command a number of times so as to “lock” the entry into the cell phone recognition. The more advanced requires no training and enables the phone to recognize or understand the entries even if spoken by someone other than you.

To do list

This is a reminder function that allows the user to enter and manage a list of things to do. Different cell phone models offer different options for this feature; in some cases, the user can sort the items by priority and assign deadlines.

Voice memo

Some cell phones have a built-in recorder feature that lets you capture notes to yourself or to record parts of a phone conversation.

Standard 2.5mm headset jack

This is a cylinder-shaped jack that fits the small pin-shaped plug of many cell phones. This is a rather standard jack for headsets and car-kits.

Alarm

Cell phone alarms can work in different ways, depending on the model. The most basic version of this feature allows you to preset a single alarm to sound at a given time–but the unit has to be on. The more sophisticated version allows for multiple alarms and to coordinate them with the phone’s calendar or to-do list–and the alarms will sound even when the cell phone is turned off.

Calculator

Most cell phone calculators are rather basic, and perform only additions, subtractions, divisions and multiplications. In some models, the calculator also includes a currency converter and a tip calculator.

Calendar

Called “datebook” in some cell phone models, the calendar lets you see and manage your schedule for the month, week or day. Depending on the sophistication of the feature, this may be linked to a reminder or an alarm function.

Mini USB port

USB is a standard way to connect various electronic devices (including cell phones) to a laptop or a computer hard-drive. A cell phone with a mini USB port can therefore be linked to a computer via this standard connection, thereby enabling downloads, synchronization with calendar entries, etc.

Vibrate

Most cell phones give the user the capability of switching off the audible ringer and put the phone on “vibrate.” When on vibrate, the phone alerts you of calls, messages, etc., by vibrating rather than ringing. This function is useful in environments where a cell phone ringing would not be appropriate–such as a library or a business meeting. Vibrate is sometimes called “quiet mode.”

Phonebook capacity

A cell phone’s phonebook capacity refers to the maximum number of contacts the user is allowed to enter.

Multiple numbers per name

More advanced cell phones give the user the option of entering more than one number per phonebook entry. This way, each contact can include home number, work number, cell number, fax number, etc. This feature allows the phonebook capacity to be maximized–so that each name does not require multiple entries for different numbers.

Today’s cell phones are not only a means to communicate. More and more, they are becoming a way for the user to be entertained and to make a lifestyle statement. This is why the majority of phones come with a number of personalization features–such as different ringtones, “skins” or faceplates–as well as games.

Polyphonic ringtones.

Cell phone polyphonic ringtones are ringtones that can produce more than one note at the same time. In music, groups of two or more notes played at the same time are called “chords.” The more chords a polyphonic ringtone produces, the more exciting its texture.

Custom ringtones.

Some cell phones give you the capability of changing the built-in ringtones with others of your choice. Some cell phones have a built-in function that allows you to “compose” a custom ringtone, while with others you have to download ringtones composed on a PC or another phone.

Preloaded ringtones.

Most of today’s cell phones come with a number of preloaded ringtones from which the user can choose; each produces a different sound or melody, which can be used to set up custom caller IDs.

Ringer profiles.

The ringer profiles features allows a cell phone user to set up different ringer settings so that each “profile” can be activated for different situations. For instance, when you are at work you may want your ringer settings to be businesslike and quiet, while when you are on vacation you may allow yourself something more colorful.

Ringer profiles are not confined to ringtones, but also include vibrate, flashing lights, etc.

MP3 ringtones.

Some cell phones allow the user to download short MP3 music files and use them as ringtones instead of the standard preloaded tones.

Picture caller ID.

Picture caller ID is allows you to associate a picture or image to any of the contacts in your phone book. This way, when you receive a call from one of these contacts, you see their picture as well as their phone number.

Multiple languages.

Many cell phones give you the capability of displaying prompts in different languages, the most common in the US being English, Spanish or French.

In some cases, multiple-language capabilities extend to predictive text entries. In other words, if you tap “Lun” and your phone is set to English, the predictive text will suggest “lunch”; if your phone is set to French, it will suggest “Lundi” (French for Monday).

Languages supported.

This is the list of languages supported by a cell phone with multiple language capabilities.

Games.

Many cell phones give the user the ability to play games. Games may come preloaded in the cell phone, available for download and/or available on the wireless Internet to enjoy on a pay-per-use basis.

Customizable faceplates.

A faceplate is the cover that fits around the phone’s keypad; faceplates are customizable when they can be replaced with different ones available as accessories.

Customizable graphics.

This is a feature that allows the user to customize the image(s) displayed on the phone’s display as screensaver, wallpaper, caller-ID graphics, etc.

Many phones come with a bank of graphics from which a user can select. In other cases, images can be downloaded or even received via multimedia messaging. More sophisticated phones even have built-in image editors.

Customizable themes.

A theme is a set of matching visual elements that appear on the phone’s screen, such as background image, menu, icons, etc. Also called “skin,” a theme can be something like the outdoors, sports, high tech, etc.

A phone with customizable themes allows the user to select a theme from a bank or to import it to the cell phone via a download.

Cell phone’s messaging features have to do with its ability to browse the Internet, send and receive text and multimedia messages as well as email through your cell phone.

Mobile web browsing

Some cell phones contain or accept software that will turn your handset into a mini
wireless Internet browser. Depending on the model, the ability to browse the Internet with your cell phone varies. The most
basic version of mobile web browsing only allows access to text-only pages specifically designed to be viewed through cell phones,
while more advanced models enable the user to surf and see full websites.

Multimedia messaging

Also known as MMS, multimedia messaging is a capability that allows you to send and receive
messages that contain not only text, but also other “media” such as pictures, video-clips, graphics, audio-clips, etc.

HTML Web Browsing

HTML is the standard code used to build Internet pages. Some cell phones are enabled
to view full web sites that contain HTML codes.

Text messaging (SMS)

SMS stands for short messaging service, or the capability for a phone to send and/or receive
short text messages. These text messages can be sent either to another cell phone–through the phone number–or to an email address.

Email client

Some cell phones have the ability to send and receive emails, using such servers as POP, IMAP and STMP.

Instant messenger built-in

As the name suggests, instant messaging (IM) provides extremely rapid chat between two or more
users. IM differs from other kinds of messaging such as SMS in the sense that it uses the Internet as the communication platform. Some of
the popular IM applications are Yahoo! and AOL instant messengers.

Traditionally, IM “chat” occurs between personal computers. However, cell phones with built-in IM capabilities are enabled to send and receive instant
messages–from and to PCs and other IM-enabled cell phones.

Also, IM allows the user to set up a “buddy list,” and to see whether any particular user on this list is online (available) or not
before the message is sent.

Learn how to safeguard your cell phone with the NCOA Device Protection Service. You cell phone is an investment, and a sensible device protection plan guarantees you inexpensive and hassle-free replacement in case of loss, damage or theft.

Device Protection Service for your cell phone

If your cell phone is stolen, lost or damaged, you’d be in good company: 1 in 4 cell phone users will experience this in 2006. That’s why Wirefly offers Device Protection Service insurance from NCOA for quick, hassle-free cell phone replacement or repair if this happens to you.

Remember that replacing a cell phone will likely cost you much more than you originally paid for it–sometimes even as much as $500. So, safeguarding your cell phone with NCOA Device Protection Service means peace of mind for a small investment.

Why is it good to have Device Protection Service provided by NCOA?

Estimates indicate that about 1 in 4 phones in the US will be lost, stolen or accidentally damaged this year. Replacing your phone will likely cost you much more than your originally paid for it when you purchased it together with a new wireless plan. Instead, by protecting your cell phone with the Device Protection Service offered by NCOA, you ensure that if something happens to your cell phone, you will be spared hassle and high costs.

Who is the provider of the Device Protection Service?

The Device Protection Service is provided by NCOA, short for the National Cellular Owners Association, Inc., (PO Box 273566, Boca Raton, FL 33427, phone 1-800-654-5590). The NCOA has over 20 years of experience as the leading provider of cell phone protection assistance through plans like the Device Protection Service. Therefore, signing up for the NCOA Device Protection Service means that you have an experienced and trustworthy organization backing you up in case your cell phone is lost, stolen or damaged.

How do I sign up for the Device Protection Service?

Just check “Yes! I want to protect my phone with Device Protection Service” on the order form of this authorized online reseller. Or tell your cell phone sales agent that you want this valuable service if ordering by phone. You can only subscribe at the time of purchase. By choosing this cell phone protection service, you are becoming a member of the National Cellular Owners Association, which entitles you to the full benefits of the Device Protection Service.

For how long is my cell phone covered?

The one-time fee covers your new cell phone for 12 calendar months from the time your cell phone is activated. You also have the option of extending your membership with NCOA for cell phone protection beyond those 12 months.

What is covered by the Device Protection Service?

The entire cell phone, PDA, wireless PC card device plus any original electronic accessories and batteries provided in the cell phone box are covered for repair or replacement with no deductible. Eligible devices are covered for accidental damage, theft, malfunction or loss up to the liability limit of $300 per incident.

What is the cell phone replacement value with the Device Protection Service?

Your replacement cell phone will be based on the replacement (”retail”) value of the device without the new line of service activation. If the protected cell phone that you originally purchased is not available, you will be offered a cell phone of similar value. Eligible cell phones are covered up to a liability limit of $300 per incident.

What incidences are covered by the Device Protection Service?

Theft, accidental damage, malfunction after 30 days and loss of the cell phone are all covered by the Device Protection Service. The loss (real or perceived) of data, time, financial opportunity, or any other consequence arising from the loss of the use of the wireless device, normal wear and tear, inventory shortage, dishonest or malicious acts, cosmetic damage (e.g. marring, scratching), negligence, water damage or loss, or unexplained disappearance, theft from an unattended premise or vehicle not reasonably secured, in transit either through postal or courier services, or incidences occurring outside the US or Canada are not covered by the service.

How do I file a request for repair or replacement or my cell phone?

You can file a request by contacting NCOA at 1-800-654-5590 or online at www.joinncoa.net. NCOA will fax or email you a form to complete and return. All forms have to be filed with a reasonable incident explanation. NCOA’s procedures will simplify your requests and expedite your repair or replacement request.

How long does it take to process a repair or replacement request?

Normally it takes 2 business days to process a replacement request, and 5 days to process a repair request.

Can my request for repair or replacement be rejected?

If NCOA deems that the claim is fraudulent, or that requests are not filed with sufficient documentation, or if any of the reasons cited in these FAQs apply, NCOA may reject the request, or request additional documentation.

What if I change my cell phone?

If you change your cell phone during the 12 month membership period, you must contact NCOA to update their records with your new cell phone information in order to retain your Device Protection Service benefits. NCOA tracks your membership based on the unique information specific to the cell phone for which you purchased Device Protection Service.

If I don’t actually get the cell phone I’m planning on buying, will I be charged for the Device Protection Service?

Your Device Protection Service starts with the activation of your new cell phone. Therefore, if you do not qualify for service with the cell phone carrier you’ve chosen, your cell phone will not be activated, your Device Protection Service will not begin, so you will not be billed. There is no risk in signing up for the Device Protection Service.

Can I cancel the Device Protection Service?

Yes, you can cancel your Device Protection Service with NCOA at any time, and you will receive a pro-rated refund from NCOA for the unused period of your 12 month membership term.