[lug] smartphone question

[scott.herod at comcast.net]

> From: Steven A Hart <shart at Colorado.EDU>
> 
> Hello everyone,
> 
> I'm one of those oddballs who has resisted the lure of smartphones and 
> mobile based technology.  Yes, I know, I'm crazy right?  Anyway, I 
> started thinking that maybe I should start checking this stuff out and 
> maybe even get a smartphone.  I'm looking for suggestions for 
> smartphones that won't break the bank.  I'm OK with Apple technology but 
> I really do not want a Iphone or ipad.  Ideally, I'd like something 
> Linux based, but I'm not sure exactly what is out there.  Not exactly a 
> requirement though.  I definitely DO NOT want anything based on Microsoft.
> 
> There is just so much out there now that I'm behind and want to play a 
> bit of catch up.  Oh yeah, currently I use Verizon for my cell service 
> if that matters much anymore.
> 
> Thanks and happy 4th!
> 
> Steve

Hi Steve,

Of course Android runs on Linux.  Currently, my phone, which is a still at Android 2.2 is using kernel 2.6.32.  It uses FAT16 file systems though. :-(  It is nice that I can mount the two drives in it while it is connected with a USB cable to my laptop and then access the two drives as one would normally.

As others mentioned, the phones are essentially free.  It is the data plan that is very expensive.  You mention Verizon so notice that they recently announced that they were discontinuing their unlimited data plan and would instead used a tiered billing schedule.

So, two recommendations: 

Run down to the Verizon store at the 29th Street mall and play with the phones that they have on display.  Then go look on the web for reviews of the ones that you like.

Also, you might want to consider an IPod.  My brother uses one with a wireless interface to make calls through Skype.  That avoids the need for paying one of the cell phone carriers, but of course Skype is now owned by Microsoft.  Also the official Skype App on my Android phone only works though the G3 network and not over a wireless one.

Scott