LAURI MATSON | Computer Cache

Today, more people have cell phones than fixed telephone lines. They are fast becoming a key part of everyday life.

Although cell phones are considered fairly new devices, the concept was developed in 1947. The first cell phone, as we know it today, came about in 1973.

It was more of a mobile car phone and had very limited use. Now they are small and compact and range from basic phones to music phones, camera phones, and smart phones that include Internet browsing, e-mail, instant messaging, etc.

Their popularity is so great that when asked, “If you were stranded on a desert island and could have one thing with you, what would it be?,” the choices given were “matches/lighter,” “food/water,” “another person,” or “wireless phone.” Need I tell you the answer?

Everyday our cell phones are merging more into our computer lives. We carry our contacts, send text messages, and run a GPS (global positioning system) to find the right path to our destination. You can even complete a Word document or Excel spreadsheet (but I’m not sure why). They are becoming an all-purpose device — and oh, I forgot, you can still make a phone call.

Cell phones are probably the next remote control for your life and they have changed the way we perceive a phone call. In the past, we placed calls to a location hoping the person we wanted was there; today we place a call to a person assuming they’ll have their phone and will answer immediately.

We have already seen the amazing impact in business. You can’t leave the office without one. It’s also becoming difficult to go to the movies without one interrupting the plot.

If your cell phone is aging, be careful when shopping for a replacement. The features and styles are dumbfounding — just like with computers. Follow the same rules for a phone as with a computer.

Know how you want to use it and how much you want to spend. Make sure what features you want. There are many $50 specials available, but the more features you choose the higher the price.

Another important aspect is your carrier. They are a large part of your level of satisfaction or disappointment. If you must have an Apple iPhone, but you don’t get good reception from AT&T, it’s really pointless. Our area in particular has a number of dead zones.

Also, make sure you like the look and feel. Some phones can be so small that using them (especially if you have big hands) can be frustrating. New features are only good if you are going to use them, if not, they can become cumbersome. If you can, try your model first to see if you like the feel and try out the audio quality. Ask your friends and family and try a call on their phone.

The times are indeed changing, and as much as I dislike the use of phones in restaurants, schools and movies, they are here to stay. So move over computer and make way for the cell phone.

Makes me rather miss the old rotary dial.