If you have a cell phone that has become locked because it was given to you by a friend and you never got the code, or you forgot your own code, don’t be afraid. Unlocking a cell phone is usually a simple process and unless you try guessing at the unlock code too many times, you won’t have to use any special equipment.

Unlocking a phone to use with another service, however, usually requires special software that you will need to either purchase, or will require a visit to a mobile phone retailer who has the equipment and will charge a nominal fee. For a few phones, there are simple unlock codes that you can just enter into the phone.

Unlocking a sim card, on the other hand can be difficult. If you simply want the card unlocked to be used with a different service provider or in a different country, law requires that your service provider make it possible to do so, which will prevent you from having to change over all of your numbers. This makes it easy to change phones as you can just simply unlock the sim card than use a data cable to move over all of your ringtones, wallpapers, and photos.

If you do not know the passcode for your SIM that was created by yourself, you should call your mobile provider who will provide information on your specific SIM card.

Certain phones become un-usable if you try to unlock them unsuccessfully too many time. Be warned that this is common on many nokia phones!

Nokia Phone unlock codes:
NokiaFree.org

Motorolla Phone codes:
MotoUnlockNow

Virgin Mobile, Boost, T-Mobile, Cingular and all other phones:
MobileUnlock

The ballots are in for the best selling cell phone (on a global basis), according to Krusell, the Swedish manufacturer of carrying cases for portable gadgets.

The Krusell list is based upon the number of pieces of model-specific mobile and smart phone cases that have been ordered from Krusell during September 2006.

According to the comany, this list is unique due to the fact that it reflects the sales of phones on six continents and in more than 50 countries around the globe.

When you look at the rankings (after the break!) what’s interesting, at least globally, is how the mobile phone market has boiled down into what we call in marketing parlance a “three-horse race.”

In other words, out of all the companies that have tried their luck in this market (and many are still trying), three (and only three) companies have established themselves as the mobile phone market leaders in the eyes, ears and pocketbooks of the gadget-buying consumer audience.

(We take no demographic for granted here.)

Which three? You will find out in a moment. (Patience …)

Now, without further ado, let’s get to get to the rankings of the top 10 selling cell phones. The envelope please:

1. Sony Ericsson K790i/K800i
2. Sony Ericsson K750i/D750i/W800i
3. Nokia 6230/6230i
4. Sony Ericsson W810i
5. Motorola RaZr V3/ V3i /V3c
6. Nokia N73
7. Nokia 5500
8. Sony Ericsson P990
9. Nokia 6280/6282
10. Motorola Krzr K1

Sony Ericsson, Nokia, Motorola (looks like the combination of Sony and Ericsson from two cell phone companies into one is paying off …)

Buying a cell phone is not an easy task, particularly with myriad cell phone varieties arriving in the market these days. Each one offers its own unique features, yet it is different in some way from the other, through style, design and quality. With the plethora of cell phone varieties, coming out these days it’s easy to get confused. Here are a couple of tips you can use when buying cell phones:

• What is your budget? Look for cell phone models that fit within this budget. There is a cell phone available to suit any budget now-a-days. Low-price does not mean low quality as and they come with stylish features as well.
• Decide what you would like your cell phone to have. Which features do you most require? Do you need a cell phone with Multimedia, MP3, WiFi? If so look for these features in the phone you are considering.
• What size do you require? Do you want one that is small-sized, medium-sized or a large-sized ones? Smaller one will disappear anywhere – you purse your drawer. Large phone cannot be overlooked so if you are the forgetful type a large one would be the best option.
• Do you require a hands free option so that you can talk as you drive? If so check for these features. You can also consider the Bluetooth technology as devices with such technology enable you to talk when starting the car by just touching a button or two.
• Look into the mobile phone’s keypad and find out if it has QWERTY keypads instead of the typical number/letter combination. This works out easier when you need to send text message.
• Voice dialing features enable you to make calls without using your keypad and this is useful when you are multitasking. So, look out for such feature with your mobile.
• Mobile phone also features walkie-talkie-like services that can be used to quickly connect with individuals or call groups. This is very useful when you need to quickly talk to people all at the same time.
• Read reviews about the make and model you are selecting before you purchase. Be sure to ask relevant question on areas of doubt with your dealer before buying.

Looking into the above-mentioned hints will ensure that you have a good deal on your hand when you buy your mobile phone.