Important features of Cell phones

Look for useful features
In addition to the useful phone and multimedia features of today's cell-phone models, consider whether you need the following:

Speakerphone. A built-in speakerphone, which allows hands-free use in a car or elsewhere. (But avoid using any phone, even hands-free, while driving.)

Programmable jog dial. Lets you program all the pressure points on a circular jog as shortcuts to the most-used features and functions, such as address book and text messaging.

Standard headset connector. Standard headset connector on the handset is also known as a 2.5-mm or sometime a 3.5-mm connector, and is compatible with most aftermarket wired headsets and speakerphones. Some phones with a proprietary connector might include an adapter to a standard connector.

Voice command. This feature allows you dial numbers from your phone book by speaking the name, without the usual training. You can also dial numbers by pronouncing the digits.

Preset and custom text messages. Besides providing a quiet means of communication, text messages have been known to get through even when networks are overloaded. Most phones come with preset messages, such as "running late" or "call home." And most allow you to program customized messages for an emergency or frequent use; for example, "I've dropped Billy at soccer."

Bluetooth. Voice indicates the phone works with wireless Bluetooth headsets and most hands-free car systems. Stereo means it supports stereo Bluetooth headsets for music and other multimedia. Data indicates the phone can wirelessly exchange pictures, contacts, and other files with other compatible Bluetooth devices, such as a computer, cell phone, or PDA.

Memory card. Many phones have slots that accept memory cards to expand storage capacity by as much as 8 gigabytes. The removable cards can also serve as an easy way to shuttle files between your phone and other devices-provided the phone's maker didn't bury the card slot behind the battery cover. Card formats include Secure Digital Card SD, miniSD, and MicroSD.

Hearing-aid compatibility. Some phones interfere with hearing aids. Even those with hearing-aid compatible designations are not guaranteed to work with all hearing aids. Your doctor can help you choose a phone compatible with the aid you use. Or go to www.accesswireless.org.

Other useful capabilities you might want to consider are a music player, megapixel camera, wireless-broadband-data capability, GPS navigation, as well as child-location and call-management services.