Viaero Technology Blog

The sticker prices of modern flagship smartphones may be shocking, but when we take a look back at the history of cell phones’ retail prices, it reveals today’s costs may not be entirely out of line. When new or advanced technology is introduced, higher prices often compensate for the efforts and costs that went into developing that technology. Like the cell phones that were first introduced in the early 1980s, modern flagship phones integrate new technology to expand what a cell phone can accomplish.

Technically, a smart home is a residence containing one or more smart devices. While some prefer to use these devices to increase their home’s energy efficiency, others enjoy the conveniences of creating sophisticated entertainment rooms or automating routine chores. From smart speakers and vacuums to smart home lighting to locks and doorbells with built-in security cameras, homes and cities are becoming more “wired” to the internet.

Speech recognition technology has been around since the late 18th Century with the invention of the Acoustic-Mechanical Speech Machine, according to Medium. However, it wasn’t until 2008 that what we know as modern speech recognition technology emerged. In 2008, Google introduced its voice search app for mobile devices. Apple followed suit in 2011 with the introduction of Siri.

The meaning of unlimited data can be confusing for cellular subscribers since you’re not always able to use high-speed unlimited data. Even though a plan may use the term “unlimited,” there could be restrictions related to speed, amount of use, video streaming quality, and hotspot data. The scope of what’s included in “unlimited” plans can vary widely between carriers, especially when cost and value are taken into account.

CNBC reports that American smartphone owners are hanging on to their phones for longer. In 2016, the average time users kept their phones was 22.7 months. As of 2018, the average was up to 24.7 months. Some of the top reasons why we’re becoming more reluctant to upgrade our smartphones as often include:

• Rising Costs
• Too few technical advancements or significant changes between models
• Phones are more durable and are lasting longer

With average smartphone prices up 52% in the last three years and with high-end models now $1,000 or more, consumers are finding it less affordable to upgrade. They also want to get the most use out of a more expensive phone. One of the ways that wireless carriers are helping to make the cost more affordable is by extending average contract lengths.

Have you ever wondered what others around the globe pay for the data they use on their smartphones? You might be surprised to find out that North American countries pay some of the highest rates on average. As reported by Niall McCarthy with Forbes, the average cost per gigabyte of data in the United States is $12.38. Despite these higher averages in the U.S., residents of Zimbabwe pay the highest rates in the world at $75.20 per gigabyte.

Cutting the cord is a phrase that evokes a sense of freedom from high-priced cable bills. The phrase even signals freedom from the boring channels and content no one wants to watch. But, can switching to a streaming service really save you money and give you all of the shows you want? Let’s look at all the factors you’ll need to consider before making the switch.

Have you ever wondered if it’s better to purchase your next smartphone from your wireless carrier, activate an older device you already own, or purchase from a third-party such as Amazon? While the answer can depend on your service plan and the type of phone you want, there are several crucial advantages to purchasing a phone directly from your carrier.

Video and entertainment content streaming on wireless devices is growing and we know many of you are joining this trend. We’ve been listening to the fact that you’re using Viaero’s cutting-edge wireless services and technologies in this way. That’s why we’ve expanded our partnership with DISH Networks this holiday season to make it easier for you to use Sling TV.

While the broadband gap between rural and urban communities is well-known, the actual scope of the problem may be larger than previously reported by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC). A new report conducted by the private sector reveals the FCC’s number of those without access to broadband internet could be 20 million shy of reality. States with a higher concentration of rural communities tend to receive less funding for broadband infrastructure since these communities also tend to be overlooked.