Multimedia Features: Something for Everyone
 Once
upon a time, a wireless phone was just a simple device that allowed you to
place calls from almost anywhere. Today, with the emergence of new
technologies, these remarkable tools enable you to do so much more than just
make and receive calls. As we become increasingly dependant on digital sources
for news, information and entertainment, new multimedia phones give you access
to everything you need no matter where you are. Whether you want to watch clips
of the latest headlines, listen to your favorite music or play video games
while youre stuck waiting in line, RadioShack can help you find a phone and
plan that will allow you to take advantage of the many multimedia options
available to wireless users.
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Entertainment at your fingertips
When it comes to multimedia options, wireless phones provide a wide range of
features to choose from. Content such as ringtones, graphics, movie trailers,
television clips, various music formats and even video games can all be
downloaded to your phone, allowing for an endless variety of customization
options and entertainment to fit your personality. You can stream FM and
satellite radio, and even live TV. Listen to MP3 files of your favorite band
while on the go, surf the wireless Web and get driving directions, too. In
order to utilize all of these features, you'll need to select a compatible
phone since not all phones can play digital music files or connect to the
wireless Web. Make sure you consult RadioShack's knowledgeable sales
associates and the online descriptions and specifications to determine
which phones have the features you want.
You'll also need to choose a wireless plan that provides access to the
multimedia options you wish to use. You may need to subscribe to different
services, such as wireless Web, Multimedia Messaging Service (MMS) or GPS
service, to take advantage of the ability to download songs, view videos or
send pictures. Each carrier has a different method of charging for multimedia
services, but bear in mind that you may be subjected to download or usage fees
in addition to the charge for the actual file.
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Making the most of your memory
Like computers, phones have the ability to store data and files. Most phones
can only hold a limited amount of information, though. So make sure you know
how much data your phone can store before you begin downloading files, as they
may not transfer successfully if you don't have enough available space.
One way to maximize capacity is to purchase a phone that allows you to link to
your computer (either through a USB cable, a Bluetooth connection or across
the wireless Web) so that you can store certain types of files, such as MP3
digital music files, on your computer. With this option, you can constantly
rotate the contents of your phone without having to permanently delete any of
the files.
Another option for increasing memory is to buy a phone that enables you to use
a
flash memory card. These handy devices can store larger amounts of
information on a small chip that you can plug into your phone for simple access
to multimedia content. To learn more about flash memory cards and other helpful
wireless accessories, consult
RadioShack's guide on Wireless Accessories.
The emergence of 3G technology
In order to utilize multimedia content, wireless phones need to be able to
download files quickly and efficiently. Recent technological improvements have
led to the development of 3G, or third generation, phones and air cards that
can access your company's intranet, allow you to read and send E-mails, even
with large attachments, and open desktop applications. These devices are
capable of downloading information at speeds far superior to first and second
generation phones. While 3G networks are not available in all areas right now,
wireless carriers are working to expand coverage in hopes of providing all of
their customers with access to the increased convenience and efficiency of
faster downloads. To learn more about 3G technology, consult our guide on
Selecting a Wireless Phone and Plan.
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