Pick the perfect cell phone; there's like a million mobiles to choose from. So we've sifted through the newest, grooviest, most futuristic gab machines to fill your specific needs. (A Girl's Gadget Guide).(Brief Article)

* Remember when cell phones were pricey, elitist things only highfalutin Hollywood moguls had? Back then, these convenient inventions were very inconveniently the size of a small dog, and the connections had about as much fuzz as one.

Ah, well, the amazing advances of technology: Now, everyone and their grandma can afford to tote a cordless. And in this iffy climate--where you need to be reachable 24-7 should that job offer come in or, God forbid, another national crisis occur--cell phones have quickly become a lifeline to the rest of the world. "Since September 11, purchases of cell-phone subscriptions have increased by more than 300 percent," says Christine Loredo, senior analyst for the telecommunications consulting firm The Strategis Group.

As a result, there's a flood of new, and so majorly improved, models on the market, starting at about $60. But that can also make choosing the perfect phone one big headache. So we've untangled the mess of technology and categorized the best options according to your lifestyle. Whether you are upgrading or finally getting connected, here are our phone picks for you.

for the do-it-all dynamo

How many engagements can you pack into a day? Between a high-voltage career, a thriving social life, and Pilates classes, you need a cell that juggles as many things as you do. Luckily, there are new models that keep your schedule, phone book, and E-mail all in one place ... oh, and make calls.

* The supersize Samsung SPH-I300 is a full-color Palm-powered phone that eliminates the need for two gadgets--it's a cell and PDA rolled into one.

* Not only do the Nextel i90c and i80s have a schedule and phone book built in, but you can also purchase a keyboard accessory that allows you to send E-mail without fiddling with the tiny keypad.