Giving someone a smartphone is like giving them a mini computer, with scads of downloadable applications.
If you’re shopping for one, you’ll first want to see what’s available from your preferred carrier, says analyst Michael Gartenberg at researcher Interpret. Then decide what features are important — do you want a touch-screen? And prioritize what you’ll use the device for — e-mail, music, games, Web browsing and so on.
Nearly 20 percent of all mobile phones are now “smart,” up from 14 percent in 2008, according to a study by J.D. Power and Associates.
If you’re ready for your first (or next) smartphone, or are shopping for someone else, here’s a guide:
A Tasty Pick
Apple’s iconic iPhone 3G S ($199/16 gigabytes or $299/32 GB with two-year AT&T contract; apple.com) has yet to be topped in the coolness department, thanks to its gorgeous 3.5-inch touch-screen, iPod functionality, integrated Wi-Fi and GPS — and more than 100,000 downloadable “apps.” The iPhone has also morphed into a hot gaming platform. On a budget? The older model iPhone 3G is available for $99. The “S” model, which stands for speed, is faster and has a video camera.
Messaging Marvel
Research In Motion’s new BlackBerry Bold 9700 (from $199 with two-year AT&T or T-Mobile contract; rim.com) is powered by a peppy processor, multiple wireless options (3G, Wi-Fi, GPS and stereo Bluetooth) and reliable and fast “push” e-mail that delivers messages straight to your in-box. Navigate through the Bold’s features — high-resolution Web browsing, 3.2-megapixel camera and music playback (stored on memory cards) — with a touch-sensitive trackpad and traditional keyboard.
Google-icious
Bring on the power of Google-to-go with the thin Motorola Droid ($199.99 with two-year Verizon Wireless contract; motorola.com), an Android-powered phone with integrated Google search, Gmail, Google Calendar, Google Maps and more. The 3.7-inch touch-screen glides open to reveal a keyboard for messaging…