Smartphones

Smartphones, like the iPhone, and Blackberry are full-featured cell phones that have the functionality of personal computers. Sales of smart phones went up by 84% between 2007 and 2008, constituting 19% of handsets sold in the United States.The NPD Group: [Press Release: SMARTPHONES REPRESENT 19 PERCENT OF ALL HANDSETS...] (September 8, 2008)

The first Smartphones were developed in the 1990s by IBM and Nokia. The initial models added simple applications to cell phones such as a calendar, calculator, games and an address book. As the technology has evolved, Smartphones now feature access to e-mail, Internet browsing, media players and other mobile applications in addition to simple phone usage.

1. Research In Motion (RIM), manufacturers of the Blackberry
2. Apple
3. Palm
4. Samsung
5. Motorola

When choosing a Smartphone, consider your budget, lifestyle and what you need the phone for. Top end models have more advanced features with a bigger price tag, while lower end models may not contain all the bells and whistles, but might be better suited for someone on a budget. Style and design should also be considered as some models are more attractively designed, but also are more likely to be scratched or damaged depending on the situation where they are to be used.

Another factor to consider is the wireless carrier. Some phone models are only available with contracts for certain carriers. Do some research to find out which cell phone networks are best for your particular area.