Top 7 tips when you buy a new cell phone

1. Know your requirements
Make sure what functions you want from a phone and what functions you need as the cost of the cell phone depends on three factors namely form factor, characteristics and services. Make sure that it matches your requirement and you don't have to cut down on other expenses.

2. Pay attention to battery life. A dead phone is no phone at all, so look for a phone's "continuous talk time" rating. Assume you'll be able to go a day without charging for each hour of talk time.

3.Camera, video recorder, and picture messaging. Use them for taking pictures, shooting brief video clips, and sharing them with others. Most are low-grade VGA models, but some camera phones have resolutions of more than a megapixel. 2-megapixel models are expected to reach Australia in the second half of 2005. Some carriers offer better online tools than others, and multimedia plans vary. Also, a camera phone is no substitute for a real camera (yet).

4.Speakerphone/conference calling. A speakerphone is useful for multitasking, such as working on a computer while you're holding a conversation. Consider getting a unit with a full-duplex speakerphone, which allows both parties to speak at the same time. Business travellers who need to set up impromptu meetings will want to look at a phone that supports conference calling.

5. Accessories
Also, compare the accessories that come with the model. Make sure there is bluetooth wireless capability in the phone for wireless headsets. Many states have banned the use of mobile phones while driving. Make sure there is hands-free kit and speaker independent voice commands. Other than battery and charger look for  earphones, an antenna or a neck strap or a leather casing.

6. Operating System
Operating system has become an important technical aspect for consideration now. Earlier it was all Symbian-based Nokia phones but the entry of IPhone running on iOS and Blackberry on RIM created waves in the market. And the OS feature gained more popularity with the latest Google's Android. At present there is Android, Symbian, iOS, Research in Motion, WinMo and MeeGo which will be coming soon. Android Anycool has been selling like hot cakes and its market share has also increased tremendously.

7.Don't be afraid to give it back. Most carriers offer a 15-day period when they'll take a phone back, no questions asked. Use your phone heavily the first week after you buy it. If anything deeply disturbs you - muffled sound, dead areas, a limp battery - return it and get a new one.