Some tips on how to choose a cellphone provider that fits your needs
Cellphones have become one of the most popular items since their public debut in 1973. According to Consumer Affairs, 97% of Americans own a cellphone and since 2015, cellphone ownership has increased 20%. Purchasing a phone also now comes with adding a phone provider/subscription service. According to Statista, in 2021, the number of mobile subscriptions in the U.S. was at 361.66 million, up from 352.52 million recorded one year before. The demand for cellphones won’t slow down anytime soon. If you’re considering purchasing a phone, be sure you’re choosing a provider that’s right for you.
There were over 1,000 wireless telecommunications carriers in the U.S. as of 2023, an increase of 3% from 2022. When purchasing a phone there are thousands of choices regarding style, model, brand, data, coverage and carrier. Research is important in the process of finding the right phone. And, the process should start with three steps: choose a provider, then a phone, then a service plan. These choices are interdependent so it’s a good idea to know what you want ahead of time.
The Better Business Bureau offers these tips:
■ Set a budget and plan. Decide what provider, cellphone model and plan you’re interested in, as well as how much you’re able to spend.
■ Research phones and providers. Look at reviews and past users’ experiences. Also, get recommendations from friends and family.
■ Determine if you need a single or family plan and how much data you’ll use.
■ Decide if you want to sign a contract or go with a pay-asyou-go option.
■ Consider a carrier who provides reliable service, not just at home, but in other places you frequent. Be sure your old phone is compatible with the service if you want to continue to use it with the new carrier.
■ Determine which extras and perks are valuable to you and which you’re likely to use.
■ Compare costs between different carriers to get the most out of your experience.
■ Ask about free trial periods. If the service is unsatisfactory, you may be able to discontinue without paying a penalty fee.
■ Check if any rebates are offered and inquire about hidden fees.
■ Watch for sales and deals which could possibly lower the price of your phone.
■ Find out if you’re able to switch plans or upgrade phones in the middle of your contract period.
■ Find out what areas the company provides service without charging roaming fees and whether it suits your cellphone usage.
■ Take into consideration how the carrier handles customer issues if you encounter problems.
The BBB can help ensure you’re dealing with a legitimate organization. BBB can provide a list of BBB-accredited cellphone companies or profiels on ones you’re considering. Visit BBB.org or call 937-222-5825 or 800-7765301.