The earlier models of the cell phone were huge and reception was limited to a small area, they are now not only smaller and more powerful it is possible to change continents and receives calls on your cell phone through what is called roaming service.

It is standard for new cell phones to come with a camera. Other models allow users to surf the internet, receive and send email and pictures, text message which is a culture unto itself, and watch television or short movies.

The latest craze in the cell phone market is the iphone from the company Apple, which comes with a camera, and internet capability. What is unique to the iphone is its touch screen feature which allows users to make a call or to text message through a virtual key board, it also comes with visual voice mail and can access WI-FI services. Users can employ the iphone just like the other newer models for text message, internet surf and take pictures but not videos. The iphone can be purchased with a 4G memory or an 8G memory.

The spread and popularity of the cell phone has led to growing debate on the proper etiquette that should accompany the use of the cell phone. Of more concern is the use of cell phones while driving. Studies conducted by government and road safety advocates indicate that drivers on the phone are distracted enough and fail to notice other road users or traffic signs.

In a number countries its use while driving has been banned .Many people find it a great nuisance when others resort to keeping their phones on at theatres, restaurants, weddings or even funerals. Most schools ban the use of cell phones in class due to disruptions and their potential use to cheat at exams. There have been health fears from the use of cell phones but no real proof has been put forward to show that cell phone use could cause brain cancer.

There is no doubt that the cell phone will continue to influence our culture for a long time. More powerful models will keep rolling out; and improvement made to available features and services from service providers. It will be interesting what comes after the iphone. Prices will also fall and perhaps we will even see a full length movie shot entirely using a cell phone currently on short length movies have been made using cell phones. It already has its place in crime fighting and rescue operations. And it is a fashion statement.