Things to know when buying a camera
phone pt.2
2. Yes, taking pictures
comes with a cost.
Once you've snapped your picture, it'll cost you to
get it off your phone. Some carriers offer multiple plans that accommodate
both low and heavy users. These fees are in addition to the base plan.
Here's a look at plans from three major carriers:
AT&T Wireless users send pictures through the mMode plan. Plans run from
$2.99 to $19.99 per month. Those who snap a lot of shots should consider
the "ultra plan" for an additional $19.99. This allows you to send 8
megabytes worth of pictures monthly. If you need to send more, it'll cost
an extra 6 cents per kilobyte.
•
Sprint PCS users can purchase the Sprint PCS Vision Pictures Pack for an
additional $15 a month. This allows you to send an unlimited number of
pictures. This service also includes 100 text messages and Web access.
•
Verizon Wireless charges an additional $4.99 per month for its picture
plan. This plan lets you send 40 pictures per month. Each additional
picture costs 25 cents.
There is a way around paying these fees. Some camera cell phones allow you
to download pictures directly to your computer using infrared or Bluetooth
technologies. However, this defeats the convenience of being in the field
and instantly sending pictures.
3. The picture quality is adequate for most business uses (but likely
to get better).
Although the pictures aren't as clear as a 5-megapixel camera with
10X optical zoom, camera cell phone pictures are more than adequate for
most uses.
For example, an insurance investigator could easily snap some shots of a
damaged car and send it off to get appraisals from various body shops.
Most phones on the U.S. market have a 0.3-megapixel camera. That should
change soon; manufacturers are expected to release 1-megapixel cameras
shortly. Overseas, 3-megapixel cameras are expected to hit the market
before year's end.
4. Don't forget its main use: It's a cell phone first.
Remember that you want a cell phone that takes
pictures, not a camera that makes phone calls. It's a subtle but important
difference.
If you are switching cell phone providers, shop for the best service and
not the cheapest. Although you want to find a plan that will give you a
great rate, don't forget about coverage and customer service.
Remember that you can now take your phone number along with you. The cell
companies have worked most of the kinks out of that process, at least in
the 100 metropolitan areas where the switch became possible in November
2003.
Although most wireless services offer nationwide plans, service can be
spotty. Be sure to look at the coverage maps.
Source (Microsoft Small Business Issues)
Cell Phone Plans with Free Camera Phones >>>
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Kim Komando
Kim Komando writes about workplace technology and security issues. She's
the host of the nation's largest talk-radio show about computers and the
Internet, and writes a syndicated column for more than 100 Gannett
newspapers and for USA Today. Find Kim's show on the radio station nearest
you.
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