tips before buying a new phone

Buying a new gadget, especially a phone, is an exciting time. Before you leap headfirst into a new purchase, read through our guide to make sure the process of switching from old to new is as easy as possible.
This may sound like the simplest step, but for some it can be a daunting task, and ultimately it comes down to personal preference.
As much as we glamorise new smartphones, you really should approach buying a new phone the way you would a new car. Think of your budget first, figure out what inclusions you will need in a new plan, and then shop for a handset within those parameters. Remember, every extra dollar you add to your plan will need to be multiplied by 24 months. The difference between an AU$50 plan and an AU$60 is AU$240 over the life of your contract.
Alternatively, set a dollar limit and look online for an outright, unlocked purchase. There are some great bargains available through reputable online vendors.
So, what should you be looking for in a new phone? Your first consideration might be to choose a software ecosystem. Do you know in advance whether you want an iPhone, an Android phone or a Windows Phone? Do you already own apps and content in one of these ecosystems? Have you owned one before and are ready for a change?
Next, considering that most new phones are mono-block touchscreen devices, the screen should be your first consideration. There is nothing more frustrating than buying a phone with a poor screen and having to use it for the next two years at least.
You'll also want to make sure that you are future proofing yourself with power and features, though this is often easier said than done. For example, a dual-core processor is sufficient to run most new phones these days, but should you splash out on a quad-core phone just in case applications change over the next few years? Do you need near-field communication (NFC), an HDMI port or Miracast compatibility?