Hands Free Cell Phone Basics

Choosing Your Next Cell Phone

Bluetooth Compatible Cell Phones

If you are in the market for a hands-free cell phone there are a few basics that you should be aware of.

Many of the tips I have listed below are probably very obvious to you, however I have included beginner type instructions for those who need it.

The phones you see below are all Bluetooth Compatible and may be offered at a significant discount to those who sign a service contract.

One thing to keep in mind is that some cell-phones, such as the Apple iPhone may currently only be used (without a hack) if you sign up with AT&T.

This may change in 2010, however the exact date is unclear.

"Smart Phones" are the Google Nexus One, the Apple iPhone and the Blackberry Storm. All offer hands-free options.

Other phones, like the Google Droid are currently only offered on the Verizon plan, therefore, if you opt for the droid you would need to sign-up with Verizon as a Cell-Phone provider.

This will most likely change, however the dates have not been announced.

On the other hand the Blackberry is offered by many providers including AT&T and Verizon.

Depending on your location, you may experience better cell-phone reception with certain providers, if you are uncertain of the coverage in the area where you spend a majority of your time, then you should mention this concern to the sales person.

Most providers will have a coverage map or be familiar with the area and agree to refund your money if you purchase a plan where the coverage is inferior.

From my experience, I can say that Verizon has had the best coverage for me, across the United States.

The Phone is Only Half the Equation

After you purchase your "Hands-Free" cell phone, you will need to purchase a Bluetooth Wireless Headset. This is the other half of the hands-free equation.

Hands Free Headsets are relatively inexpensive these days, but what should you look for when purchasing a wireless headset?

As it turns out, sticking a device in your ear brings about many personal preferences and user types.

I have tried a dozen headsets and have found them all great when I'm in a noise free environment, however most of the time people want to use a wireless headset to stay "Hands-Free" on the road.

A couple of the Consumer Reports higher rated headsets for noisy environments are the Plantronics Discovery and the Aliph Jawbone 2.

These types of devices are constantly changing and improving, do a web search for bluetooth headset reviews for more current information.

Other considerations when purchasing a bluetooth headset include battery life, size, portability and comfort.

Hands Free Cell Phone and Accessories

In a sense almost %100 of new cell phones purchased have some type of hands free option. On the lower scale you should have the option to plug in your wired ear buds.

Otherwise be careful with the " free" cell phone offer as the phone may not be bluetooth compatible.

Always check with the cell phone vendor before accepting the free cell phone if you have decided to use the bluetooth wireless option on your cell phone.

These days, however most phones are bluetooth compatible.

You can purchase cell phones in a variety of different ways. You can use your carrier's store, independent wireless stores, electronics retailers and web sites.

Keep in mind that the cell phone is only part of what you need. You should be signed up with a wireless service provider before you choose a cell phone.

A Hands-Free Cell-Phone Communicates with a Wireless Signal Called Bluetooth. The phone is usually clipped somewhere on your person or even in your pocket. The ear piece that you see is a Wireless Headset this device communicates with the wireless cell phone using the bluetooth protocol.

The Providers

In the United States there are many choices, some of the choices may be limited by your location. Major providers include AT&T, Sprint Nextel, Verizon Wireless and T-Mobile. The manufactures of the phones for these carriers include Motorola, Nokia, Samsung, Sanyo and LG Electronics.

Free Cell-Phones

The cheapest way to get a cell phone is to sign up for a service contract since often times the carriers will have sign-up incentives that offer a free cellular phone with activation. If you are renewing your current provider contract, you are in a very good position. Your current carrier does not want to lose you as a customer and may offer incentives for a contract renewal. One of these incentives may be a free cell phone. If they don't offer be sure to ask (Don't be shy!), if they won't give you a free phone, another carrier will.