We have certainly come a long way from the first mobile phones. The concept isn’t a new one, in fact in 1947 Douglas H. Ring and W. Rae Young, Bell Labs engineers, proposed hexagonal mobiles for mobile phones.

The real launch of the first portable phones was in the early 80’s. At that time only the very wealthy or *well to do* individuals had them.

They were very large and heavy. Not something to be carried in your pant pocket or purse, this was something that weighed a few pounds.

As big as they were though, they didn’t have a clear sound and using them was a hassle. At first, all were designed for permanent installation in vehicles otherwise known as a *car phone”.

Some of these bulky units were soon converted for use as *transportable* phones the size of a briefcase. Motorola introduced the first truly portable, handheld phone.

The first digital mobileular phone call was made in the United States in 1990. They shrank considerably.

Mobile phones used to be just analog phones, with the sole purpose of providing the consumer with the capability of making and receiving voice calls while on the road.

As technology has advanced so have the capabilities of the mobile phone. They don’t just send and receive calls now, they are capable of text messaging, emailing, taking pictures and video clips.

The sizes have gotten smaller yet their abilities have improved.

As we continue to advance, so will the abilities of mobile phones. In the next few years, mobile phone networks will move data at several megabits per second, and will coexist with WiMax, Wi-Fi, and, for TV, DVB-H or MediaFLO.

Mobile phones are not just for business tycoons and parents on the run, more and more children are getting their own mobile phones.

Elementary aged children are bringing them to school.

Many schools are banning mobile phones, so your child may not be able to have or use the phone during the time when he is most likely to be away from home.

The Firefly Phone, which is a popular ‘first phone’ for younger kids, is now available from Cingular Wireless, so you could simply add it on to your FamilyTalk plan.

Although the Firefly Phone is a ‘real, functional mobile phone,’ pre-teens and teens likely won’t think so, and they will probably want a regular mobile phone.

The positive side of your child having a mobile phone is being able to contact them or them being able to contact you in an emergency.

The negative factor is that many children are not using them responsibly. If you are going to buy a mobile phone for your child, it’s important to ensure they know what is classified as proper use and what is not proper.

Being able to keep in touch with your child when he or she is not with you is a valuable perk, yet, with the right education on how to use them responsibly they can continue to be a valuable tool for your child.

It’s a rare moment when you aren’t in the presence of someone on their mobile phone.

If you want to get the most out of your phone here are some ways to maximize your mobileular phone’s features and make the most of this practical invention.

1) Manuals are usually fairly long and can be a bit confusing. These manuals however are there to help you understand your phone.

The phone’s features are properly organized into categories, making the manual a breeze to read and understand.

You’ll also be surprised to learn that your phone has many more features than you thought, and probably never would have imagined on a phone.

2) Check out or your mobile phone’s manufacturer’s website. This is an exmobileent and easy-to-use resource in addition to the information you received with your mobile phone.

3) Keep the number (usually a toll free number) that will connect you easily to on-call service agents who are standing by the help you with your calling questions, they may also be able to help you decide if you are getting everything you needed..

Also, here are some things you may not have known about your mobile phone:

1) You can store a given amount of names and phone numbers into your phone’s memory, allowing you to record a phone book in your mobile.

This may be set with specific ring tones and visual displays so you know when they are calling you also.

2) Some phones have a voice-activated dial feature, by simply saying the persons name, it will be prompted to dial the number you desire.

3) Handy little feature is the built in alarm clocks many mobile phones have. This is handy for wake-up calls, or simple reminders of other tasks (including short naps).

4) The call forward feature is handy. If you are on the road and want the calls coming into your home to be forwarded to your mobile, or if you’d like to have it reversed to the land phone, this feature may be included in your mobile phone features.

5) Timer Feature is handy, it allows for you to time the minutes you are using on your phone. If you are on a limited plan, it will help you monitor what’s being used.

6) Vibration vs. Ringing, this feature is handy. If you want people to be able to call you, but, don’t want the ring to disturb others, setting the phone to vibrate instead of ringing may be an option for you to select.

7) If you like games, you’re in luck. This feature may be on your phone as well. If you are in for a long wait somewhere, it may be a fun way to fill the time.

Read your mobile phone manual and ask your mobile phone provider about the features if you have more questions.

Many people complain about the fact that they are having problems with their mobile phones. A simple plan will help mediate the situation.

The number one mobile phone complaint happens to be something to do with the battery.

People have problems with calls being cut off or dropped, an annoyance and a frustration for many.

They complain about the fact that they are unable to get a good charge or unable to get a connection at all when in remote places.

Many have been in the habit of putting their mobile phone on the charger at night and leaving the unit powered on. This is something that people should not do with their mobile phones.

Mobile phone providers do not tell users this when they acquire them. A mobile phone regularly needs roughly 2-3 hours to fully charge up.

Some might think since the mobile phone is on and it’s on the charger that it’s causing an even exchange of energy.

This really isn’t the case because the mobile phone uses its actual power whenever someone is talking on the phone, using applications, or sending and receiving text messages.

To face this problem is whenever you’re charging your phone, turn the unit off. This will allow the phone to properly charge eliminating any extra charging.

Replacement phone batteries can cost anywhere from $40-80 dollars. This wouldn’t be necessary if you would charge this as directed.

Some may dispute that they must leave their mobile phone on at night to receive any incoming phone calls.

Mobile phone manufacturers should develop a way to record missed call while the mobile phone is off.

Give your mobile phone the break it needs to fully recharge and you will find it greatly improves.

Mobile phones don’t stand alone anymore. The simple pick it up and dial is history, mobile phones offer much, much more than ever.

Aside from the actual use mobile phones, the gadgets available now are numerous.

Mobile phones have several built in features now. These features may be all-in-one or they may be in different combos.

Depending on your needs and budget will depend on the phone you select.

Your major mobile phone merchant will carry items such as, Wireless headsets that you can attach to your ear are used for hands free connection. You can be on the phone and be using both hands for tasks you need to do.

You can purchase a mobile phone pouch to encase the phone safely when not in use. Depending on your tastes you can choose from a large assortment of colours and styles.

Depending on the phone and the services provided, downloading ring tones is another gadget or frill available for you to choose from.

Mobile phones can also be combined with features such as, photographs, internet/email, messenger, text messaging, video taping, and may be used as an I-pod for downloading and playing music.

There are many possibilities to choose from, knowing what would best suit your needs and desires will help you in making your mobile phone selection.

Don’t be afraid to ask questions of the providers of service and products, when you are ready to make your purchase, you will be well informed and prepared for getting what you want.