Project PDA

Choosing a service provider

The first and arguably the most important decision that needs to be made before buying a new mobile phone is deciding which service provider to use. With all of the complex voice, data, and feature plans available, there isn't a magic formula or overly simplistic piece of advice to give. We recommend relying on the service providers' technology and coverage that will best meet your needs. Remember to take into consideration that you may work in an area that has great coverage, but live in an area that gets horrible reception.

Current service providers' wireless data technology includes GPRS, EDGE, UMTS, HSDPA, 1xRTT, and EV-DO. This list is not exhaustive of older technology but really represents the latest data transmission for the early adopter. For the highest transmission rate you should be looking for GSM/EDGE GSM/UMTS or CDMA/1XEV-DO. However when shopping pay close attention to the coverage map on the providers website. For GSM you should demand a quad band phone. For CDMA you are looking at North America primarily but improving in other parts of the world. GSM/HSPDA is around the corner but very few products are available.

A secondary consideration is whether your laptop can use the smart phone as a wireless data modem. Many phones are capable, but may have this feature disabled by the provider, as always caveat emptor.

Lastly, in relation to your service provider are ring tunes and the ability to create your own. There are always wide varieties available but be cautious when downloading. Some providers will not only charge you for the tune, but for the data downloaded. In speaking with a customer services rep in Canada I learned the frequent complainers are parents of teenagers that download ring tunes. Create your own via MP3 or WAV and transfer it to you phone manually instead.

Is it a Mobile Phone first or Primarily a PDA?

This personal choice will ultimately limit the features you want in a mobile phone or PDA. Is your choice of device a phone first or a PDA? Smart phones seek a balance of this question and some do a great job of it. However being able to contrast between the two is a great way to decide on a Smart phone.

The Operating System for your Smart phone is an important decision. Available software and OS maturity are important here. Windows Mobile, Symbian, Blackberry, Linux, and Palm are the heavy hitters. After making yourself comfortable with the available software, consider your existing software. Moving to a new OS may come with the hidden cost of buying new applications.

Screen size is always at the top of the list for me. Include screen resolution here as well. If you looking for a Smart phone then the screen should be large enough to not only display a video but also a decent size email. Also consider that you will likely try to fit a movie on a SD card and watch it on your phone, just to say, “Look what I can do!” to your friends.

Key Features and required add-ons

WiFi, Bluetooth, and Infrared data interfaces should all be required but seldom all are available simultaneously. Once you receive your first data-intensive wireless bill you will be looking for WiFi. Also consider that you may want to use Skype Mobile on a Windows device with WiFi and a Bluetooth headset.

The included web browser of your phone is an important consideration. How well the browser renders your desired website can be difficult to test. However some browser developers offer simulation browsers for application developers. Download one to your computer and point it to your online banking site as test. If it renders right you are in business. If all else fails try out the Mobile Opera browser for compatibility.

There are plenty of wired headset on the market, but nothing is cooler (or nerdier) than a Bluetooth earpiece. If possible, test this inside the store as you may leave unsatisfied with your Smart phone/earpiece match up.

Battery life demands comparison. Check the mAh (milli-Ampere hour) rating on the battery to determine a comparison. The higher the mAh, generally, the longer your phone will be operational. Just make sure your comparing Lithium Ion batteries to other Li-ion’s for fairness. You should also reconsider your choice of phone if you cannot replace the battery.

When buying a battery charger to plug into your cigarette lighter double-check the quality of the adaptor. Ensuring quality of connection and construction at both ends of the wire will save you some cursing when your phone is beeping low battery.

Style and Coolness

Form factor, multimedia, email, SMS, and instant messaging features are all important when choosing a Smart phone. Each feature must stand on its own two feet without compromise. Once a manufacture limits any of these features, they narrow the sales of their phone.

For photo, video, email, SMS and dialing look for single button access to any of these features. With respect to video, expect to be able to watch a video pod cast as a litmus test. Taking a quick photo and video of the Hallmark moment is valuable. The 1.3 mega pixel camera is the minimum acceptable standard. When taking a self-portrait a small chrome mirror on the camera side is invaluable.

The form factor of the phone is difficult to judge and is largely personal. However the look and feel is very important when you want to show off or just stick the phone in your pocket. With respect to style, your screen size and resolution come back into play. When showing off your phone people need to see your demo without squinting.

Usability

Often left untested until after your purchase is usability testing. You want your Smart phone to pass the “One Handed,” test before laying down your cash. Try to dial a number, type an email, and send an SMS for usability. Also, turn the phone to Vibrate and test your awareness of it as it rests in your pocket buzzing. Do this same test while it rests on your hip side carrying case attached to your belt. If you cannot feel the vibration try increase the level.

Does the phone have a built in keyboard, is it virtual, or do you have to rely on the 12 numeral buttons on a standard phone. I never got used to 12 button typing and tend to avoid these phones. However style could overcome function here. Check for the number of clicks or button presses to access the multimedia and data enabled functions of your phone. The tactile feel of the numbered keys is important. Check to see if there is slightly raised bump on the number 5 for easy non-sighted location.

My Picks for now?

The Blackberry Pearl wins me over for style and usability. However I wish I could plug a SD WiFi card in and surf to my hearts content while having a cup at Starbucks.

The Palm Treo 700wx is a vast improvement over the 700w. The 700p is updated but nothing really provoked me to upgrade from my 650. If I went Palm, I would go 700wx.

The Nokia Symbian N9x series of phones are impressive. WiFi built in with some powerful multimedia hardware. It reminds me of the similarly named Sony Palm OS series of yesteryear that never really caught on.

I am partial to the Sony Ericsson K790A, but would like to test it thoroughly before shelling out the money.

Lastly the HP Ipaq hw6515 meets my liking, as far as a Windows Mobile device goes.

Good luck with your purchase and remember that Christmas is just around the corner.