In today's cell phone market, the omnipotent smartphones grant users constant communication at their fingertips along with over-the-top data packages. They also allow students to watch YouTube in class to help stave off that dreamy Sandman.
Whatever the rationale to purchase these devices, the hefty price tag is cause for serious contemplation.
The iPhone, possibly the most popular smartphone, first came out a little over a year ago. Since then, Apple has released a new version that boasts better memory, faster Internet speeds and, believe it or not, the price has actually been lowered.
The previous version of the 8GB model cost $399 and the new model that came out this June costs $199. Apple is now selling the 16GB model for $299 (formerly $599). Of course, these prices are subject to signing or renewing a two-year contract.
"I got the first version when it came out and renewed my contract to get the new one this summer," said Chris Alvino, a senior business major. "Even though it's expensive, it's worth it. I pay a little more each month, but I like the features it gives me."
While the price tag is lower, there's always the fine print. A monthly calling plan needs to be purchased, as with any phone, and as the price of the phone has dropped, the required data plan fees have increased.
Customers of AT&T used to be able to pay $20 a month for the data plan, but now the charge has increased to $30 a month. In a two-year contract, that's an extra $240.
According to the AT&T Web site, there is also a monthly surcharge and additional charges for features customers may want to have access to, such as text messaging plans.
Even with the cost of the product decreasing, customers may essentially wind up paying the same amount.
The iPhone is the big new thing, but it may not be the best. Many students already have an iPod, a digital camera, a computer with Internet service, a cell phone and a GPS system in their car.
For people who may find the iPhone a bit daunting, the Blackberry is another option. It has many of the same features that the iPhone offers, and the base price is usually less.
"I got a Blackberry and I love it. I can text faster now, and I can check my e-mail if I need to no matter where I am," said James Capuana, a senior English major. "I don't need all that stuff that comes on the iPhone since I have things that can do it all already."
Since the Blackberry is offered through all cell phone carriers, the prices vary. Each price depends on signing a two-year contract, the same as any Smartphone.
At AT&T, the cost of a Blackberry ranges from anywhere between $99.99 and $299.99; Verizon, $49.99 to $149.99; and at Sprint, $99.99 to $219.99. All of these price estimates are according to their respective Web sites.
The wide accessibility of the Blackberry versus the iPhone allows customers to find the right plan and model to suit their needs; however, there are still charges and extra fees included in the purchase of a Blackberry.
"I switched to Verizon when I got my Blackberry," Capuana said. "I was able to save money on the cost of the phone and I don't pay too much in fees."
While the Blackberry and iPhone are by far the two most popular Smartphones, there are many other types offered by all cell phone carriers. AT&T, Verizon, and Sprint each offer the Palm Centro and the Moto Q.
When considering taking the plunge and fulfilling that dream of having a "really cool" Smarphone, consider your options - or lack thereof. No matter what carrier students choose, they will be paying fees on top of fees for all sorts of services.
AT&T is the only company that offers the iPhone, and their fees and base phone charges surpass the rest. On Verizon and Sprint, customers will pay less for their phone and have an equally large amount of phones to choose from.
Whatever phone winds up being the perfect choice, be wary of the fees and fine print.
