Why Get a Smartphone?

Mobile phone technology has come a long way from the days when there were briefcase-sized mobile units and handsets that were hardwired into cars. But one of the biggest developments recently has been the rise of the smartphone. But are they right for everyone?

Absolutely not.

Smartphone is a term that was coined to describe a mobile phone with richer, computer-like functionality. It started in the early 1990's with a device developed by IBM called Simon. Throughout the 90's, other new devices were brought out by other companies, but the big surge didn't start until the turn of the century.

One of the major developments in smartphone technology was binding Personal Digital Assistants (PDAs) with cell phone technology, providing greater functionality with the convenience of a mobile phone. Now a consumer could have their appointment book, note pad, even an eBook reader all in one convenient package along with their phone. But the next development took the world of smartphones even further.

When cell phone providers began offering internet connectivity, the smartphone became more than just a high priced toy and entered into the world of viable data tools. Current smartphones have the ability to transfer data at up to DSL speeds, depending on the network they're on. In addition, most of them have built in digital cameras and video capabilities, making them entire multi-media units in and of themselves, capable of recording data and then connecting to the internet to post it for the rest of the world to see.