In North America we call them cell phones, in other countries they are known as mobile phones, but whatever they are called, the technology is the fastest growing in the world. Now there’s a mobile phone for everyone, whether you just want to make a call or need a mini computer that can do just about anything a PC or laptop can.

With many different mobile phone companies getting their hands on the cake, some giants have been fighting for control of this multi-billion dollar business. Recently, AT&T’s proposed $39 billion purchase of T-Mobile USA was given the green light by the federal government despite having 93 different lobbyists influencing and twisting arms in Washington and campaign contributions on both sides of the house for a total of $46 million to date.

This is good news for the consumer who will continue to get competitive cell phone rates.

Basic cell phones are still the most widely used around the world, these are devices that have basic calling capabilities and can be locked or unlocked. If a mobile phone is locked, it only works with a specific carrier, for example AT&T, Sprint, or T-Mobile. After 90 days, many carriers allow you to unlock phones or purchase an unlock code.

Smartphones and pocket computers are more complex devices with the convenience of sending and receiving text messages, emails and allowing the storage of documents and files. Each brand has its own operating system such as Windows Mobile, IOS or Blackberry.

Pocket PCs are simply smartphones that have touch screen capabilities. If a phone contains a SIM card, that card can be swapped between devices, if those devices are unlocked.

The latest pocket computers and smartphones were one of the most common Christmas gift requests this year and millions were wrapped and placed under Christmas trees.

The careless and improper disposal of all those millions of old cell phones poses a huge threat to the environment. Littered mobile phones end up in landfills, where heavy metals leach out of phones over time and can contaminate drinking water.

The solution is to send your old phone to your carrier for disposal, take it to one of the many electronics stores that provide small electronics recycling, or if the unwanted cell phone is in good condition, you can sell it at one of many online sites that buy old phones or donate them to charity.