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Smart Phones

Introduction

Smart-phones

The smart phone is a smaller version of a tablet pc, combined with the added functionality of a mobile phone (calling /text messaging)

The main difference between a normal phone and a smart phone is that a smart phone has internet connectivity.

Smart phones are mainly used for:

  • Calling  / messaging
  • Mobile internet browsing
  • Camera / Video Camera functionality
  • GPS Navigation services

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GPS

GPS Navigation

Most modern smart phones can be used as Satellite navigation systems. The two common types of satellite navigation uses are:

In-car satellite systems giving the user directions when driving.

  • Directions and time to destination
  • Live traffic information and diversion suggestions

Can you think of any advantages and disadvantages? Click to see how many you got!

Advantages

Advantages

  • No need to buy a separate sat-nav system
  • You always have your phone with you, less likely to forget it than remembering a separate system, or for unexpected journeys
  • Always up to date as are updated automatically by your phone
  • Integrate with other services, such as Google maps.

Disadvantages

  • Sometimes not as accurate as other systems.
  • Usually rely on a working internet connection for the duration of the journey

gps navigation

Smart Control

Smartphone smart home control

Smart phones can be used to control a number of different devices in a smart home, even when you are away from home.

Example smart systems include:

  • security
  • heating
  • lights
  • cookers
  • baths
  • entertainment

Video Calls

Video Calls

Many modern smart phones can be used for video calling, where the face of either or both the callers can be seen on the screen on the phone. Video calls require a 3G / 4G data connection with strong signal.

Text messaging

Text Messaging

Mobile phones and smart phones can be used to send standard text messages. These messages can usually be sent even if signal strength is poor.

Internet Messaging

Internet / Instant Messaging

A variety of instant messaging services have be set up, these services often combine text messages

VOIP

Internet Telephony – VOIP

Internet Telephony is telephone communication via the internet. You make and receive telephone calls via your computer, and the data is transmitted over the internet, rather than directly down telephone lines.

Advantages
  • Usually free international internet to internet calls.
  • Highly discounted internet to non-internet international calls
  • No landline / mobile required.
  • If you lose your phone you can still make calls
  • Cheap video calling and video conferencing.
Disadvantages
  • Call quality depends on the speed of your internet connections.
  • International calls can be quite ‘laggy’ and poor quality.
  • requires a computer and broadband internet connection.
  • Less portable than a mobile phone.

Pros and Cons

Advantages of smartphone computers

  • Very portable
  • Good battery life
  • Convenient – always in your pocket when needed.

Disadvantages of smartphone computers

  • More expensive than  a tablet pc for the same price
  • Small screen size and no keyboard makes them of limited use for office / multimedia work
  • Almost impossible to upgrade
  • Prone to damage.
  • Lower CPU and GPU speeds compared to other computer types.