An introduction to wireless phones and options

In addition to being able to make and receive calls everywhere you go, wireless phones give you the ability to send multimedia messages and e-mails, enjoy videos, music, games and live TV, keep track of all of the items on your busy schedule, surf the Web and even get driving directions. Keep in mind that in order to use some of these more advanced functions you'll need to purchase a phone that is designed to utilize services such as the wireless Web, text, picture and multimedia messaging, music playback and video capabilities, and high-speed data transfer, to name just a few.

Form and function

When selecting a phone, there are two main characteristics you want to consider: functionality and style. The ingenuity of manufacturers and recent advances in technology balance the need for certain features with designs that match the latest trends. With the large number of choices available, you'll have no trouble finding one whose features and look match your desires.

Carrier and plan selection

Remember that you'll want to select a phone in conjunction with a wireless plan to make sure each of them allow you to utilize the features you want most. For example, if you want to be able to take snapshots with your phone and send them to friends, you'll need to pick a phone that has a digital camera as well as a plan that allows you to send picture messages. Also bear in mind that while many carriers offer a free phone when you sign a service contract, the phone may or may not have all of the options you're looking for. To learn more about which plan is right for you, consult RadioShack's Wireless Plans guide.

Monthly service plan or pay-as-you-go phone

When selecting a wireless plan, you'll have the option of choosing between a monthly service plan and a pay-as-you-go plan. Some phones are designed specifically for use with pay-as-you-go plans and can be very economical. Phones designed for use with monthly rate plans are often included free or at a discounted rate when you sign up for an extended service contract. While it may seem that there is a huge difference between these two types of plans, the appearance and features of the phones are very similar.

3G technology

With more and more multimedia content available in the form of video clips, music files, games, TV  and more, wireless phone manufacturers are working hard to ensure their technology is up to date and capable of offering optimal performance. One of the most recent developments is in the form of 3G, or third-generation, phones that have the ability to utilize faster connections and higher bandwidth to provide access to rich media formats. Wireless carriers are constantly improving and upgrading their networks in order to provide quick, convenient access to a wider range of content. If you intend to take advantage of multimedia formats and other high-bandwidth content, make sure you choose a phone that can interact with the latest wireless technologies.

Type, size and style considerations

There are a number of factors you'll need to take into consideration when choosing a phone. Some of them will be technical. Is the phone capable of utilizing all of the features your wireless plan provides? Do you need the ability to access and view multimedia content? Listen to music? Others are more aesthetic or functional and refer to aspects such as the type of phone, its size and weight and various elements of style. While choosing a phone that has the technical capabilities to perform all of the functions you require is crucial, don't neglect these other factors, as you'll want to have a phone that meets all your needs.

Finding your type

As you browse through the selection of phones RadioShack has to offer, you'll see that they usually come in four basic designs: candybars, flip phones, sliders and PDAs. While making a selection, consider how each one feels in your hand and how easy it will be to operate. Think about how you will use your phone. If you plan to use it for nothing more than making and receiving calls, choose something light and small. If, however, you want to view streaming video, TV or access the wireless Web, look for a phone with a big screen capable of producing sharp, vibrant images.

Candybar phones, named for their resemblance to a bar of chocolate, feature a one-piece design with both the keypad and display located right next to one another. They tend to be compact in size and may have smaller displays. While their design leaves the keypad exposed, there are many accessories, such as faceplates and covers, available to protect both it and the screen. Candybar phones also often have a feature that allows you to lock the keypad and requires you to input a pass code before any numbers can be entered.

Flip phones, or clamshell phones, and slider phones both feature covers that protect the keypad to prevent numbers from accidentally being dialed when the phone is resting in your pocket or purse. The cover also provides more surface area to allow for a larger screen or keypad, an excellent feature for users who wish to utilize multimedia content. Some flip phone designs may require two hands to operate, though sliders, because the cover slides rather than opens out, can be easily operated with one hand. A new design combines the protection of a flip cover with the functionality of a slider, allowing you to slide the cover out slightly with one hand to make the phone spring fully open.

For maximum versatility, you may want to consider a PDA, or Personal Digital Assistant. Devices like the BlackBerry or Treo are like portable mini offices. With wireless Web capability and keyboards that resemble the one you use on your home computer (called a "QWERTY" keyboard for the sequence of letters it starts with), they are somewhat larger than regular wireless phones, though they retain a slim design that disguises their enormous capability. PDAs are more expensive than other types of wireless phones, but their added functionality and organizational capabilities may be a necessity if you travel frequently for business.

Style

When it comes to customizing your phone, the possibilities are almost limitless. Some phone models are available in multiple colors ranging from simple grays and blues to bright oranges and pinks. Completely change the look and appearance of your phone by adding a different faceplate or carrying case. You can even download your favorite song as a distinctive ringtone that will play every time your phone rings. Decorate your display screen with wallpaper, a picture of a loved one or the logo of your favorite team. With so many ways to change and customize its appearance, you have the ability to make your phone as unique as you are. RadioShack's Guide to Wireless Phone Accessories can give you plenty of additional ideas for customization.

Choosing the right size phone

Wireless phones have come a long way from the large, awkward items they once were. Many models are small, sleek and lightweight, fitting perfectly into a pants or shirt pocket. Still others, such as PDA phones, are a little on the larger side, offering additional functionality in a more substantial package. You’ll want to select one that has the ideal size and weight for your needs, bearing in mind that the more compact the phone is, the smaller the keypad and screen will likely be, meaning that you may want to look for a slightly larger phone if you think you’ll have trouble seeing or manipulating tiny buttons.

Weight is another issue to consider. While no wireless phone could be termed "heavy", some weigh a few more ounces than others. If you use your phone for hours every day, you may want to choose one that's as light and easy to hold as possible. The smallest phones may weigh as little as three ounces while larger smartphones and PDAs can weigh around eight or more.

Next page: Batteries, talk time and standby time

Visit Special Offers, Savings Alerts and more, or Subscribe via RSS for up-to-the-minute alerts.