Baby Boomer Technology – Smartphone

Welcome to this weeks edition of Baby Boomer Technology – Smartphone

Show Notes:

What is a smart phone?  According to Wikipedia – a smartphone is a mobile phone offering advanced capabilities beyond a typical mobile phone, often with PC-like functionality.  It a phone plus.  Think of a blackberry that can make calls, get emails, send text messages, spreadsheets and more.  All in a package that is small and light.  Different smart phones are offered by the different cellphone companies. 

So you want one.  How do you choose the one for your?

Check to coverage maps and find ones that will work where you travel to.  It does you no good if you go to a town on business and you can not get reception.

If you travel overseas go with a GSM based network.  You can plug in a prepaid SIM card so it works while you are there.

How are the keys for text messaging and email writing?  Can you use them?  Are they too small?

You will need a voice network for the phone and a data network for the other functions.  So be sure the investigate the data networks carefully.  Look for the unlimited data plans.

Does the phone have all of the functions your need?  Can the data plan make all the connections you need to specialty services?

Look before you buy.  This is not a cheap decision initially and over time.