subject: The Truth About Cell Phone A User Should Know [print this page] For a cell phone user, it can be over whelming to see all the changes that are coming about with cell phones today. Every so often, you'll see cell phones with new or different gadgets, services and phones in display windows at the mall, or in magazines and news papers. But these features can sometimes be too good to be true. Below are some cell phone facts that a user should know before making your next phone purchase.
Race Against Battery Life
Using up every ounce of power there is in your cell phone before charging is a big "no-no". The attitude of doing so may shorten the life of your battery between charges that you'll soon realize that you are charging more than you are talking!
There are many ways to prolong the life of your cell phone battery. One is to keep your backlight off unless you'll need it because backlight consumes energy from your batteries. Second, when you are in an area where there is no coverage or roaming coverage only, turn off your phone and stop searching for a signal since searching for service will use up all of your cell phone's power. Lastly, limit your conversations, cell phone games, or internet browsing because these use a lot of battery power.
Downloading Woes
It is best to be sure if there are no recurring fees whenever you download a web features, games, ringtones, wall paper and screen savers because some of these may have recurring monthly fees not declared by the company. If you purchased a phone for your child, know first if you can block these features or if there is a way where you can restrict your child from ordering these features aside from yourself.
Reading the Fine Print
Some company offers a one- or two-year contract or pay-per use agreement when purchasing phones. When buying a cell phone, be sure to read the fine print before signing on the dotted line. Consider how often will you use your phone each month and weigh the prices of both agreements. If you're planning to use your phone a lot, then a long-term contract might be worth it.
Contemplate on the features that you want. Long-term plans get more features for less or as a bonus at no charge. Ask if all your features will work when roaming and if long distance is included. Find out also the usual roaming charges, connection fess (if applicable) of your phone and if there are any hidden fees in the plan.
Factory Warranties
It is also important to bear in mind the warranty of the phone before purchasing. Will the company replace your cell phone in case it breaks, lost, or stolen? Cell phones are very mobile that you can carry them everywhere you go, thus making it prone to damage or lost. The warranty will give you peace of mind whenever you use and carry your phone.
Buying Cell Phones Online
When buying a cell phone online, buy from a company that you trust not just from random cell phone retailers that you see on the internet. Make sure that the cell phone you're going to buy is up-to-date and carries all the features that you want.
There are also some electronic shopping malls online where you can find many brand names of cell phones, a PDA or other electronic gadgets at a very low price such as Sony, Nokia, Motorola, Samsung and Blackberry. You can shop for other products like PS2 machines or games, computer supplies, iPods, and Xbox while at the mall.
