Smartphones, in case you’re not entirely sure, are phones that behave like mini computers. They come with operating systems, wi-fi internet connectivity and QWERTY keyboards. They’re powerful, they’re useful, and it sometimes feels like they might just be taking over.
Dictionary.com has numerous definitions of the word ‘Smart’ as an adjective. The top 4 definitions are listed as:
1. Astute, as in business; clever or bright
2. Quick, witty : a smart talker
3. Fashionable; chic
4. Well-kept; neat
These are clearly the definitions that Mr Smarty O’Smartypants had in mind when he named The Smartphone. However, they do list a further definition of the word smart:
5. Causing a sharp stinging pain (For me at least, this one is closer to the real truth of The Smartphone)
While The Smartphone may be astute, quick and fashionable, they also come with one other factor to take into account: The Smartphone User. Ever been at the cinema and been unable to concentrate on the film, because there’s the glow of someone surfing the web in the corner of your eye? Ever been at a gig, and you can’t see the act due to everyone holding up their videophone? Ever been at a pub quiz, and been beaten by the team on the table next to you, quickly answering every question with Google? Ever been trying to speak to someone and they’re too glued to their screen to pay attention?
Or maybe your own aversion to The Smartphone doesn’t come from their annoying effects on your friends’ social behaviour. Maybe you’re just accustomed to your more traditional ideals. While most plan their life on their smartphone, maybe you still prefer the humble diary. The pen over the pixel. No one ever claimed that The Smartphone is mightier than the sword.
And let’s not get started on apps. While some may be useful, the majority seem to be noisy novelties, designed to make your peaceful train journey a nightmare.
Don’t worry, by the way, this blog isn’t one big long iMoan. There is a positive element. While it may seem that the whole world is using The Smartphone, there are a small but concentrated resistance, still holding out against The Smartphone Invasion – and if you’re not sold on The Smartphone, fear not, for there are certain benefits to be had.
The first benefit is lower monthly charges. If you only use your phone for calls and texts, then there’s no point paying for Smartphone line rental. Why should you pay over-the-odds for a monthly service you’ll never use, because, let’s face it, we have our gym memberships for that.
The second benefit is a popular one – cashback! Many of the lower-end handsets come with opportunities to claim redemptions on your line rental, or automatic cashback up front. Popular handsets such as the Nokia X2-00, come with cashback deals to the tune of £350 auto-cashback, or redemptions deals exceeding £600. Check out our blog on cashback.
If you want something a little more material, then there are also a great range of free gifts to choose from. With Christmas on the way, there’s no better time to choose a mobile contract that comes with a TV, laptop, or games console, and cross one extra Christmas present off your to-buy list. And with our new AV partnership, there’s a larger range of gifts available than ever before.
So even if it feels like you’re the only one holding out against The Smartphone Revolution, don’t worry, there are alternatives available – ones that don’t smart quite so much.
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