Understanding Smart Phones

Despite the impending credit crunch we are warned of on a daily basis the mobile phone industry is booming and is only set to gain more momentum over the next 12 months. For many a mobile phone is no longer simply a device for calling or texting, we require a handset advanced capabilities, similar in many respects to a PC or laptop.

Smart phones allow us to customise menus and shortcuts, run multiple applications at a time, and even install 3rd party applications. Fortunately manufacturers have recognised the need for work and play, including email and web browsing, MP3 players, and top of the range digital camera capabilities.

At first glance smart phones work in the same way as existing mobile phones. Keypads resemble a cross between a mobile and PDA (personal digital assistant) and the devices themselves are about the same size and weight as previous mobiles, but are usually smaller and lighter than PDAs.

The biggest difference is that they can also access custom-designed content such as Java for Mobile Devices (J2ME). J2ME is accessible via the java applet on a smart phone and gives speedy, fairly affordable access to a range of business friendly applications, such as desktop publishing, word processing and accounting spreadsheets. So smart phones offer, in effect, the multifunctionality of a PDA along with the mobility of a handset.

The most sophisticated models are also Bluetooth-enabled, connecting wirelessly and securely with other Bluetooth-enabled devices over short ranges to create local networks. Connectivity to other technology can also be achieved with IR (infrared), and for many models removable memory cards (of various sizes) are available.

There are several contenders in the market that both stand up on the technicality of whats required as well as looking aesthetically slick. The Nokia N96 has a great feature set as well as a MicroSD card slot to bolster 16GB internal memory. It is great for N-Gage gaming and as an added bonus the BBC iPlayer mobile TV app works well. The negatives of the model are its somewhat overly plastic and glossy finish and bulky feel. It is also a little disappointing not to see an 8MP camera on such a high end model. The Blackberry mobile e-mail reputation is a force to be reckoned with and the Blackberry Bold continues the trend. The handset has an impressive build quality with an eye-catching half VGA display. It features a thumb-friendly QWERTY keyboard and is easy to set up and use push email. The model also features all the latest connectivity options as well as an integrated 3.5mm headphone socket. The main drawbacks with this model are the below average 2MP camera and its hefty frame.

The eagerly anticipated apple iphone is unquestionably worth the pre launch hype, it features faster browsing, more applications and sat-nav. Price wise its more affordable than expected. At the very most, you'll pay £160 for a 16GB iPhone with the cheapest contract. More than most high-end mobiles, yes, but worth it for the entertainment, connectivity and productivity the iPhone gives you.