Types of Mobile Phones

Basic Phones

1. Mobile phones, most commonly referred to as "cell phones" in North America and "mobiles" in most other parts of the world, tend to offer a basic operating system that allows for calling, some music capabilities and carrier-specific applications.

Smartphones

2. Smartphones are non-touchscreen devices that offer a robust mobile operating system, most commonly either Windows Mobile, Symbian, Blackberry or Palm. Smartphones are capable of sending and receiving emails, editing documents and storing files.

Pocket PC Devices

3. Pocket PC devices operate much like Smartphones, though with touchscreen abilities.

GSM Technology

4. If your phone uses a SIM card, you are using GSM technology. This technology allows "unlocked" devices (see below) to swap SIM cards between carriers without having to notify the carrier of the new device.

CDMA Technology

5. CDMA cell phones use an ESN (Electronic Serial Number) rather than a SIM card to identify the phone. In order to use the phone, you must call your carrier and have them put the ESN on your account; they are not swappable as easily as GSM devices.

Unlocked vs. Locked Mobile Phones

6. Locked devices will only work with the carrier they are locked to; for instance, an AT&T locked device will not accept a T-Mobile SIM card. Most of the time locked devices offer carrier-specific programs, but users can request unlock codes usually after 90 days of continuous service with their provider, or purchase unlocked code.