When going to buy a smartphone, you first need to choose an operating system and prioritize the features and price you want to find the right model. Learn how to determine which smartphone to buy in a thoughtful and informative manner, and make sure you consider other software currently in use!
Step
Part 1 of 2: Choosing an Operating System
Step 1. Learn the basic differences between operating systems
- iPhone (aka iOS) is known to be easy to use, secure, and has clean integration with other Apple products.
- Android is well known for its integration with Google services, customizability, and usually low cost.
- If you can, try exploring the operating system using a sample phone at a mobile device store. That way, you can feel the use of the interface and the compatibility of each operating system.
Step 2. Determine the budget
iOS (iPhone) phones are usually more expensive than Android. Among cell phone manufacturers, Apple and Samsung have the most expensive prices (with a range between IDR 4,000,000-Rp 10,000,000) while Xiaomi, Vivo, and Asus have lower prices (some can even be purchased for less than IDR 1,000,000).
- Cell phones are sometimes bundled with carrier contracts/cellular service providers or free of charge registration. Usually this package requires you to use a certain operator for 2 years and is subject to a penalty if you terminate the contract before the expiration date.
- Some carriers also charge a monthly “device fee” in lieu of a smartphone down payment.
Step 3. Consider the devices and software you already have
If you have a tablet or computer, the best level of integration of services and software can be obtained by equating the developers of the phone and the two devices (for example, Apple and iPad computers can be synergized with iPhone applications). However, be aware that all mobile phones can be connected and work on a computer operating system.
If you use MS Office or Google a lot, the best integration and support will come through your Android phone (however, be aware that Microsoft and Google also produce popular apps for other operating systems)
Step 4. Determine the required features
Each operating system has proprietary features, while others contain basic features such as email, web browser, and maps that are available on all systems.
- iOS/iPhone has exclusive features like Siri, fingerprint scan, FaceTime chat, and iCloud support.
- Android has Google Now, widgets to customize the home screen, and third-party app installation permissions (meaning, you can download programs from the internet and install them outside the Play Store ecosystem). Most Android phones today also have a fingerprint sensor, cloud storage for pictures, and support the use of Google Drive for documents and cloud storage.
Step 5. Consider the application you want to use
Many popular applications such as Google Maps, MS Office, and Apple Music can be accessed by all operating systems; however, there are also applications that are exclusive to the operating system such as iMessage, Facetime, and Google Now. Check the app store of each operating system to make sure the app you want is available (Apple, Google Play).
- In general, if a popular app isn't accessible to a competitor's operating system, chances are there are other apps with similar functionality that you can download and install.
- Purchased apps will be linked to the associated store account. You can transfer purchased apps to your next new phone as long as they use the same operating system.
Step 6. Select the operating system
For most people, the determining factor of choice is determined by personal preference. Those looking for a phone with a simple interface and secure system are likely to prefer iOS in the iPhone, while others who want customization options and low costs will opt for an Android phone.
Part 2 of 2: Choosing a Smartphone Model
Step 1. Choose a carrier
Some carriers offer cell phone and cellular service plans for both Android and Apple (regardless of operating system). Major carriers can provide cell phone subsidies or payment programs and other contract combinations to reduce the upfront cost of purchasing a smartphone.
- Some operators, such as Indosat, allow you to carry out your contract while paying your cell phone in installments every month. If you cancel your contract before the expiration date, you'll have to pay the remaining phone fee at once.
- An unlocked cell phone is a cell phone purchased from a carrier and is not associated with a cell phone service contract. The price is indeed more expensive, but you are more free if one day you need to switch cell phone carriers.
- If you buy an unlocked phone, you must again check the compatibility of the phone model with the cellular operator's network. Usually, operator users can check the compatibility of the cellular network with the identity information of the cellphone model through the operator's website, (for example, Telkomsel, or XL).
Step 2. Choose the mobile service and data plan that suits you
Cell phone operators will offer a variety of package options for phone calls, SMS, and mobile network data usage.
You can save on monthly fees by not buying a data plan, but make sure you don't need to access the internet if you're not on a Wi-Fi network
Step 3. Select the screen size
Screen size is measured from corner to corner diagonally. The screen size required depends on personal preference. Small screen phones can fit more into your pocket and are cheap. The large screen can be suitable for those of you who like to watch videos or play games.
- iPhone launched the compact “SE” series and the extra-large “Plus” series.
- Android phones are available in various sizes; there are low-priced models like the Galaxy S Mini, or more expensive models like the Galaxy S, and super-large sizes like the Galaxy Note or Nexus 6P.
Step 4. Determine the current model of the desired cellphone
New phones are usually faster and more powerful than older versions, but they are also more expensive. What's more, older models will have a hard time running modern programs.
- In order to save costs, it's a good idea to wait for the phone brand you want to release a new model, then take advantage of the lower prices for other models. When cell phone manufacturers launch a new model, it's often the case that the older model drops in price due to a lack of demand.
- Whatever the choice, understand that technology advances very quickly and new models of mobile phones will continue to appear. In the end, all phones will look old and used.
Step 5. Pay attention to the capacity of the phone's storage space
The storage capacity of a mobile device (usually in gigabytes or GB) determines the number of files (photos, videos, applications) that can be accommodated. Storage space capacity has a direct impact on the price of the phone so check your needs before making a choice.
- For example, the difference between iPhone 6 16GB and iPhone 6 32GB is only in the storage space,
- 16GB is estimated to be able to hold up to 10,000 images or 4,000 songs, but don't forget that the phone's storage will also accommodate all downloaded apps.
- Some Android phones (but not all) support increasing storage space via a microSD card. iPhones do not support this addition.
Step 6. Consider the camera quality
While your phone can generally take high-quality pictures, the original quality will vary depending on the make and model. The best way to measure camera quality is to search the internet for sample photos taken by the relevant cell phone, or try out a sample camera yourself.
- While manufacturers often tout a camera's megapixel capacity, other features like ISO, low-light performance, brightness levels, and noise reduction are just as important.
- Most modern phones have front and rear cameras, a flash, and support third-party add-ons (such as lens mounts).
- iPhones are known for having high-quality camera hardware and software.
Step 7. Consider the battery capacity of the phone
Battery technology has advanced so much that new phones tend to have longer lifespans; however, battery life largely depends on how you use your phone. If you frequently make calls, play games, and use your phone outside of Wi-Fi range, your battery will drain quickly.
- The average battery life of a phone is between 8-18 hours.
- Most mainstream Android models are non-removable batteries. The battery of all iPhone models is also non-removable.
- Some new Android phones are equipped with quick charge technology so that large-capacity batteries can be full faster (for example, the Samsung Galaxy S series). This technology is said to be able to charge the battery up to 50% in just 30 minutes.
== Reference ==
- https://www.brighthand.com/feature/what-are-the-real-differences-between-ios-and-android/
- https://kb.sandisk.com/app/answers/detail/a_id/69/~/number-of-pictures-that-can-be-stored-on-a-memory-device
- https://www.expertreviews.co.uk/mobile-phones/1402071/best-phone-battery-life-2016-top-smartphones-tested
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https://www.samsung.com/us/support/answer/ANS00048325/997471477/
