Basic Functions of Cell Phones - Essay Example

The basic function of cell phones is to make calls. I need cell phones for precisely this purpose so that I can make a call when I want to. I require a phone that also has an alarm clock feature in it. I do not like the new phones with countless features on them. If there was a phone that only made calls and did not receive any, I would buy it. I do not like to carry a cell phone with me all time. Other than email, a cell phone is a technological advancement I do not appreciate. I like to be free, without telling anyone where I am or where I can be reached, I just want to be wherever the mood strikes me to be. Even though I spend most of my time at home, whenever I go out for recreation, I make it a point not to take my cell phone along. Right now, I need to carry two phones: even though I do not like phones, this is the only way I can make my life easier. One phone is used for business and family only, whereas the other is for friends, school, and other acquaintances. The second phone is usually turned off unless I want to go out, and even then, I mostly turn it on just to check the voicemail to check if I have any appointments (with a doctor or at school, for instance).

            The only times I have used text messaging is to check my bank account balance by texting at the number the bank gave to me. Even when I receive a text message to which I have to reply, I do not text back. I prefer calling up people rather than sending them text messages. The Bluetooth feature on phones is something that I do appreciate because it enables me to connect my cell phone to my computer or other devices and transfer data easily. However, I do not believe that cell phones are a necessity. Even in emergency cases, I think I can manage very well without a cell phone. I consider cell phones and email to be the worst invention of the last century. For me, cell phones are a luxury, a luxury we can very well do without.

            Currently, I have T-mobile and AirVoice as service providers for my two cell phones. T-mobile is expensive when compared with AirVoice: I pay 70 dollars for T-mobile and 40 dollars for AirVoice per month. On both these service providers, I pay by the minute along with the contract.  AirVoice offers me unlimited text messaging, both domestic and international, which I do not use at all. I use prepaid plans on both; T-mobile carries the unused minutes to the next month, however, AirVoice does not provide this service, the minutes end with the month, whether you have used them or not. Both AirVoice and T-mobile, being 3G, are service providers for all cell phones. I use a Sony Ericson for my T-mobile and an iPhone for my AirVoice. I did not choose T-mobile for any specific reason other than because I felt like going with them. However, I like AirVoice because not only do they guide you as to how to use an Apple iPhone, but they also help you in using the iPhone 4. This is one of the biggest reasons I use AirVoice: it enables me to use my iPhone; however, I do not wish to go with AT&T as it is very expensive. I recommend both T-mobile and AirVoice as cell phone service providers.  They are both cheap and provide services for any cell phone you want to use, unlike US Cellular which makes you choose from a list of their phones.