Basically I've had a phone on contract for years. It is a bit expensive - but the huge mileage we do, the odd hours I work and the sheer amount of time we spend away from home sort of justify the expenditure. When I first had a phone in 2001 I paid £35 per month (for a ridiculously small number of minutes and a small phone that made calls). Over the years the monthly fee has shrunk to about half the original, while the minutes have soared. The phones have become more sophisticated but I've still felt mostly in control of their functions.
Yesterday I went into a certain well known chain of mobile phone shops (fortunately I had Mark with me for back up......) I am now the owner of a mini-computer that just happens to make phone calls. The monthly fee is exactly the same as the last contract AND they are throwing in a 7" tablet computer for free! Technologically I feel a little bit like Alice must have done as she fell down the rabbit hole.... I have a phone that can store complete novels in one corner of it's huge memory. Last night I sat on the sofa and read the first few chapters of 'Pride and Prejudice' on my phone - just for the experience. I've never considered myself to be a luddite but I've got to say that this feels like a technological step too far!
In the end I spent of lot of time last night worrying that the phone was going to do something 'behind my back' and that I might end up with a huge additional bill because of it's functions. First thing this morning I got on the phone to the providers technological support. A lovely lady explained how I could control it's access to the internet and cut the connection if I wanted to.
I now at least have the illusion of being in control of this thing! At the same time I feel slightly 'non-plussed' about the arrival of the free tablet computer..... I suppose it can always stay in its box!
I recently became the owner of a phone that has Kindle and internet access etc on it and am gradually getting used to it though I've always been slow on the uptake where technology of any kind is concerned:) The best bit is having books on it, already there have been several occasions where I've had an unexpected wait somewhere and out has come my phone and I've passed the time reading - it's just great!
ReplyDeleteIts amazing how much mobile phones can do these days isnt it? I dont use mine for the internet and only have 60 free minutes but unlimited texts but it is fine for my needs. My kids have all singing all dancing ones but they look far too complicated for my liking! Hope you have a happy new year!
ReplyDeleteMoblie phones have changed so much over the last 10 years. the first one we had was about four times the size of our present ones and was only able to make calls, no texts, no camera and etc. I still struggle with my latest phone and am now the owner of a Kindle Fire which I'm just about getting to grips with. Good luck with your new technology and Happy New Year:)
ReplyDeleteI am still getting along with just my land-line. There is a lot to be said for it especially the savings. I'm afraid I would be overwhelmed by all the doodads on a cell phone.
ReplyDeleteI am proud of you--I still don't have a cell phone. I notice my kids cell phones look like mini-computers and even have a camera.
ReplyDeleteWith teenage grandchildren in the house a lot I've been intrigued by their communication gadgets and quite happy to learn more and keep up with the changing technology. All the best with your new mini-computer/phone and a happy New Year!
ReplyDeleteHi Jan, I don't know how but I had lost your blog in my list of blogs I follow, but I'm here again.
ReplyDeleteHappy New year for you too
Marina from Spain
Ha ha, I wouldn't have a clue how to use a phone with so many functions on it, I can't even work the camera on mine. I very rarely use my phone at all. Thank you for your friendship this year. I've enjoyed reading your interesting posts and hope to read many more in 2013. Happy New Year, may 2013 bring health, happiness and prosperity.
ReplyDeleteHello... I found your blog 'Through the Keyhole' and came by to visit.... Don't leave the tablet in the box, get it out and play with it. If you have wifi at home then use should be free and you can do so much with them. Not least, read online magazines in full colour! And read blogs anywhere!
ReplyDeleteJan, I've had a smart phone and an ereader for a while. My husband gave me an iPad mini for my birthday. I am a pretty happy girl. Enjoy your new toys! Bonnie
ReplyDeleteMmmm... I'm due for a new mobile too, and I'm dreading it. I keep putting it off. Maybe I can be encouraged with a 'deal' though. Food for thought. I might wait and see what's on offer in the near future. Sue
ReplyDelete