With the massive movement towards smartphones, buying a cell phone has never been so complicated. It's not longer sufficient to simply buy a phone that dials numbers, takes grainy pictures, and send text messages. Instead, cell phones take high resolution pictures, connect you with the internet, act as mobile work stations, play your MP3's and respond to your touch. If you are planning on purchasing one of the new smartphones that are available to consumers, here are a few things you should keep in mind as you begin your search.

• Do Your Homework

Research is your best ally in the search for a smart phone. With each wireless service coming out with their own version of the smartphone, there are plenty to choose from. After taking a quick survey of the market and finding out what phones are available to you, hop online and look for reviews and consumer feedback. This is often the best way to find out what works and what doesn't, any specific problems that are prevalent with a particular phone and which phones are the best buy.

Your homework doesn't end there. You also need to take a more technical look at the phones and this means going to the source. Visit the wireless provider of your choice and speak to a sale representative. Tell them a bit about your usage patterns and what you're looking for in a smartphone. They should be able to point you in the right direction, showing you phones that will fit your needs. Keep a pen and paper handy so you can write down important facts and figures that will help you choose your phone.

• Be Prepared

Many customers show up at stores and expect the sales representatives to hold their hand all the way to the counter telling them exactly what phone to purchase. There are a few occasions where you will find an extremely helpful representative but for the most part, their main goal is to make a sale and they don't always have your best interest at hand. When you arrive at the store bring a copy of your bill with you. This will outline your usage patterns and therefore will be handy when figuring out what smartphone or plan you will need. You may also find it helpful to write down a few questions or additional need you have. This will help guide your search and make sure your ultimate purchase is perfect for you.

Smartphones are popular because of their ability to take the place of other portable devices. Many have a variety of functions and therefore purchasing one that works best with your needs can be confusing. Here are a few things you will want to consider when buying your smartphone.

• Internet Capabilities

Buying a smartphone enables you to access the internet wherever you go. T he majority of them have operating systems that allow users to act as if they are using a laptop. You will be able to do things like check and send email or visit your favorite website. Even though this is a feature that comes with the phone, it's often an additional charge on your bill. Make sure you are willing to pay the bill for the phone you are purchasing.

It's also helpful if you know a bit about the following features before you actually make a purchase:

• Operating Systems

Smartphones are not your average cell phones. With all the added features and capabilities the operating system, or the way you use your phone, is a lot more complicated. Many people site the operating systems as a reason they do not like the smartphone. For many it is confusing and hard to navigate. Before you buy a phone try it out. While in the store simulate the actions you take to make calls, send emails, listen to music, or add a contact.

• Memory

Smartphones have become a viable replacement for the laptop in many ways. While it's still no computer, it's definitely close enough. Many phones offer the ability to play MP3's, compose and store documents including, as well as download various forms of media from the internet. All of these things take up space. If you feel that you will be storing a lot on your smartphone inquire about the memory and if it's possible to upgrade.

• Extras

Depending on the reason fueling your smartphone purchase you will need to consider a few things before making your final decision. Will you be using it as an MP3 player? Is it compatible with other devices like your computer? Since you are buying a smartphone you want to utilize it. If there is a feature you need or want make sure you inquire about it before you make your final purchase.