by Leigh Goessl

Created on: October 24, 2007   Last Updated: June 01, 2011

Cell phones used to be a convenience which primarily gave people the capability to dial and receive phone calls from anywhere. Today mobile phones have evolved into multi-faceted gadgets to meet the needs of an increasingly on-demand and constantly connected society.

When choosing a cell phone there are several styles and options to select from, not to mention the many functions. Functional capabilities in the modern cell phone include text messaging, games, walkie-talkie features, camera, video, and Internet capabilities to name a few. Mobile apps are increasingly on the rise and this has become a primary selling point in the mobile market. A large percentage of cell phones on the market today are truly all-in-one devices.

• Modern mobile

Mobile phones have rapidly evolved to the point where these perks have become standard. It is a rare thing to see someone carrying a phone which does not contain at least a camera embedded within its' makeup or have text messaging capabilities. These are a part of today's 'basics'. The mobile phone market has grown to a point where there is high demand for these extra capabilities, but where does that leave those consumers who prefer to own a simple functioning cell phone?

While cell phones have become increasingly intricate and full of capabilities, if you're looking for a basic phone, rest assured these do still exist. Vendors try to promote the hi-tech models to sell consumers the bells and whistles, but if you insist on a generic phone with the basics, they will show them to you. Most of the time these are even the freebie thrown in when you purchase a cell phone plan.

• Carrier contracts

An important factor to consider as your start your hunt for a fancy-free cell is whether or not you already have a contract with a company. If you aren't already committed to a contract, the free phones typically thrown in with a new contract are often pretty basic. You can ask to take a look at one of those and chances are it may strike your fancy. If you already have a contract, it may be a bit harder to find another phone because unfortunately the way many contracts are structured you might be subject to outrageous fees, but it can't hurt to ask anyway.

One problem is when you are locked into a contract you have less of a bargaining chip when searching for a basic cell phone. These freebie phones are usually a style which is relatively simple to operate and may carry a much lower price tag if you can obtain one even if you are already under contract.

• Do a web search

It is also a good idea to do some comparison shopping on cell phone carrier websites. Using the web is a great way to find a basic no frills mobile phone. One way to do this is to search out consumer reviews on the web, or even search a website like Craigslist to purchase an older cell phone model.

Cnet.com is an example of a website that has a great electronic reviews section where people post their opinions and experiences with various products. If you examine and seek out what others have to say about the phones on the market, this will give you an excellent starting point in your search.

The way technology is rapidly developing, the future models may be mind-boggling. It's not hard to imagine mobile phones with remote control capabilities that enable you do your laundry, turn on the microwave and start the car . . .

All jests aside, be patient and don't settle for a high priced fancy cell phone if this is not what you desire to purchase. Instead, stick to your guns, do some research and chances are with a bit of digging you'll locate exactly the kind of basic cell phone you are looking for.

Learn more about this author, Leigh Goessl.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.