(StatePoint) Buying a cell phone, despite all the options for models and stylish cases, is no easy task. Endless questions crop up about calling plans, data plans, voicemail and insurance. Getting a new phone may be a task that happens more often than you like — as one in three smartphones are damaged within the first year of purchase.
So how can you make sure youre making the best decisions?Comparison ShopSurf the web and read customer reviews to determine what features are priorities for you and what phone delivers on them. Theres no sense in purchasing a more costly device with features youll never use. Some manufacturers offer rebates, which can significantly lower the cost of your new phone. So investigate your discount options.Know YourselfWill you be using your phone for everything? Do you make a lot of calls or are you a big texter, media streamer or Web surfer? Know your needs. If your voice minutes and data plan are limited, you may end up incurring additional fees. Find out what free apps can help cut down on extra costs and honestly assess your communication needs before committing to a plan.Get ProtectionWhile manufacturers warranties cover malfunctions for reasons beyond the users control, the reality is that accidents are just waiting to happen. From short-circuiting in the pool to shattering on the sidewalk, youll be stuck paying $650 for an iPhone or $545 for a Samsung Galaxy, if your phone breaks without a protection plan. But costly insurance through your mobile carrier is what makes many consumers balk at the idea of insuring their devices. On average, a consumer pays $10 or more monthly, plus deductibles of $175 or more.Far more sensible options are out there. For example, SquareTrade offers $5 a month protection plans with a $75 deductible thats less than half of what most mobile carriers charge. And SquareTrade allows for up to four repairs or replacements within your two-year plan. For Apple devices, look into Applecare. SquareTrade or ApplcCare are far more economical than getting insurance through your mobile carrier. More information can be found at www.SquareTrade.com.Take PrecautionsEven with a great protection plan, you can avoid the hassle of a malfunctioning phone with a bit of accident prevention. A well-fitting hard case or cover can protect your phone from slips, trips and falls. Dont take your phone into the bathroom with you — one in 10 Americans has dropped their phone in the toilet. Dont leave it on the table when youre dining and never leave it in your lap: too many people see their phone fall to its death when standing up or getting out of the car.If its time to upgrade your phone or change plans, take your time and do your research. And make sure you protect that device that most of us cant live without.Leave a Reply
You must be logged in to post a comment.