Smartphones: the choices can be daunting, almost overwhelming, worse than a candy store. For years I was a staunch Blackberry fan because I felt as though I needed the strength of their platform for my virtual assistant business. While the world enjoyed a host of apps and “shiny” toys, I was busy managing about 10 different email accounts at times and had no interest or need for the fun stuff.  Soon enough, my two year contract had come to a close and the old BB was starting to malfunction.

Enter the REAL Smartphone which opened up a whole new world of apps, tools and opportunities to connect. I didn’t know what I had been missing all those years. I did not opt for the new BB models at the time because they did not offer many of the applications that I use for business communications and social media management.

I am now using the Nokia Lumia 928 from Verizon as you may have read in a previous post. I continue to discover more exhaustive uses and likes each day.  Aside from the podcasts and In Tune Radio, I am a huge fan of the Nokia Music. Toting my new toy to the gym, I acquired their Wi-Fi and cranked up the tunes for an invigorating workout. There are many genre options from top hits, workout music, and rock, to pop charts, country and hip hop. You will find your style and mood. A bonus of Nokia Music is the ability to make it all available offline without a paid download. I have my music where ever I go, whenever I want.

I cannot say enough about the camera! I tested the clarity and crispness using my other Smartphone and the Nokia. If you are a big camera buff, then this is the phone for you. There was a remarkable difference in color, sharpness and tone. If you want to tweak your artsy side and make some very creative images there are many free photo editing apps as well. Find your inner artist.

Bonus tip: We all love to share our memories! Since your Windows based devices use cloud storage called Skydrive, sending your images from your Lumia 928 to your Skydrive ensures you always have accessibility to your creative works. It is fast and efficient. There is no need to email, text or connect a USB to transfer your creative memories. Any tool or application that saves me time or provides increased organization gets two thumbs up!!

How do you use your Smartphone to mirror your lifestyle needs?

Disclaimer: I do participate in the VZWBuzz Community offers and opportunities for devices from Verizon Insider.