Gadgets and Gizmos: Cell Phone Technology

(WSVN) -- Lap-top computers, flat screen TV's, Palm Pilots...Today, hi-tech is a hot commodity.

But if you really want to talk the talk, cell phones have become a must have item.

From text-messaging to picture taking, the future is now.

Start with rush hour traffic. Wouldn't it be nice to bypass all the bumper to bumper congestion.

Well, check out traffic map from U.S cellular. It's a wireless service that lets you map out the best route and notifies you of accidents on the way home.

Still not impressed...

How would you like to watch this on your mobile phone. That's right, Nokia in Finland has developed a television you can watch anywhere -- any time.

Nokia spokesperson: "We believe in the future, television will be an important service for all mobile phone users."

Speaking of anywhere -- any time.

Check out the Nokia N-Gage QD. This cell phone has an MP3 player, fm stereo, and gaming deck. The wireless technology even allows players to go head-to-head.

Nada Usina: "They can challenge, compete, access leader boards and even tournaments with players from around the world."

Ever tried to type on your phone? Well if your life is all work, check out this keyboard by Canesta.

Still in development, it is actually a laser projected from the phone.

"It has the computing power of a mini computer."

And if that's not enough... Our phones will very soon be equipped with the latest software just like your personal PC.

Tamara Franklin: "We have phones coming out that have microsoft built into them and I can do almost anything that I can do on a computer."

But when it comes to cell phones, looks and sounds are just as important.

Soon coming to the United States - ringbacks. When you pick up the phone to call someone instead of hearing this.. the typical ring.. you'll hear a customized musical tone or recording.

Tamara: "It can be a voice recording, it could be Jay Leno's joke from last night on my phone."

As for style, motorola plans to incorporate jewelry and other materials.

This one is well... Phat...With a PH.

Inspired by the baby phat clothing line, it will retail in september for about $700 dollars... Proving once and for all, talk is not cheap.

Tamara: "There was a time when it was unique to see someone carrying a cell phone, now everyone has one. now, it's about expressing yourself.

If you are considering buying a phone with all the bells and whistles, consider buying extra insurance. It usually costs $3 dollars a month, but can be well worth it.

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Contact: thaynes@wsvn.com