By Salvador Rodriguez
September 11, 2013, 11:37 a.m.
New iPhones are on their way, but should you get one?
For more than half a decade Apple has been building amazing smartphones, but in the last couple of years, its rivals have caught up. The iPhone is still a great device, but it’s no longer the unquestioned champion that it once was.
Nowadays, most smartphones can pretty much do the same things — you really have to look hard to find a phone with a major flaw. So to stand out, companies are giving their devices signature features, such as longer battery life or amazing cameras.
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salvador.rodriguez@latimes.com
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To help you decide which device is the best fit for you, we’ve created a guide based on various features consumers look for in their phones:
Want bright colors? iPhone 5c
If you’re looking for a bright, colorful phone, the iPhone 5c is the top choice. The device runs Apple’s trusty iOS software and has access to loads of apps. On top of that, it’s available for $99 with a two-year contract from AT&T, Verizon and Sprint (pre-orders start this Friday). T-Mobile said it will also carry the device.
The Motorola Moto X is another great choice if you want a device fit for your style. If you order it with AT&T, you can customize it hundreds of different ways. However, it costs twice as much as the iPhone 5c, and that’s why we think the Apple device is a better choice if you’re looking for color.
Hate cellphone contracts? Google Nexus 4
If you don’t want to be tied down for two years with a cellphone contract, the Nexus 4 is a great choice. A 16-gigabyte version of the device is available for $249 without a contract, and it will work with AT&T and T-Mobile’s networks.
The only reason you may not want to get the Nexus 4 is because Google will probably come out with a new Nexus phone in a month or two. But if you need a phone with no contract right now, the 16 GB Nexus 4 is an excellent choice.
Top of the line design? iPhone 5s
Other devices have the same features as the iPhone these days, but Apple still designs the best-looking phone. With its aluminum body and a new “gold” color option, you’ll be hard-pressed to find a nicer looking device than the iPhone 5s. The phone will be available starting Sept. 20 at $199 with a two-year contract from AT&T, Verizon and Sprint. T-Mobile will also carry the device.
If you aren’t an Apple fan, another aesthetically pleasing phone to check out is the HTC One. This device also features a beautifully designed aluminum body. It’s available from AT&T, Verizon and Sprint for $199 with a two-year contract. T-Mobile also sells the device with a $99 down payment followed by 24 monthly payments of $21 each.
Want security? iPhone 5s
Different category but same result. The iPhone 5s is the best choice if you want a secure device. For starters, a new feature called Touch ID makes it impossible to unlock the device unless you first let the home button scan your fingerprint. Additionally, Apple’s iMessage system encrypts the text messages you send to other Apple users. And if somehow you lose your phone, you can remotely wipe its contents using Apple’s Find My iPhone app.
Geek heaven? Samsung Galaxy S 4
If you’re looking for an endless amount of features, the Galaxy S 4 is the unquestioned best choice. There are so many features on this device that people actually complain because it can be tough remembering what all the phone can do. But if you aren’t afraid to spend a little time getting to know what the GS4 is capable of, it’s an excellent choice.
The GS4 is available starting at $199 with a two-year contract from AT&T, Verizon and Sprint. You can get it from T-Mobile for with a $99 down payment plus 24 monthly payments of $21 each.
Amazing camera? Nokia Lumia 1020
If you want the best smartphone camera available, then get the Nokia Lumia 1020. The device features a 41-megapixel camera, and you can adjust a number of its settings before you take a picture. Its biggest flaw? You can’t install Instagram on the phone.
Should you get the new iPhone? Here’s a handy smartphone guide [Photos]
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