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:
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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 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.
| 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. |