Computer Geek's Corner

COMPUTER GEEK'S CORNER

"I’d like to talk about the importance of smartphones vs. regular cell phones for the actor.

"Most modern cell phones are known as smartphones. You can think of them as the next generation or evolution of regular cell phones. These advanced phones basically have small minicomputers tucked inside. They are as powerful as the gigantic, room-sized computers that helped Apollo 11 land on the moon in 1963!

"On your smartphone, you can have your: picture and resumé, reel, email, address book, text, browse the Web, pay bills, etc. No longer are you bound to your desktop computer to handle these tasks. If you are on set and your agent calls about an audition, the agent now has a more immediate way of getting all the vital info to you.

"Most phones have Global Positioning Services (GPS) built in. I usually plug in the address location of the audition the night before. That way I don’t have to fumble with it that morning and can get there early, relax and concentrate on giving my best.

"There are many different types and manufacturers of smartphones available on the market. Also, keep in mind how you will use it and which monthly service plan you should choose. To keep my minute usage down, I often answer my cell phone and then call back from a land phone. There are also many free Web-based phone lines (e.g., Google Voice) where you log on to their website and then make your call over the Internet for free.

"Many phones are free if you commit to a two-year contract. AT&T is a proud union supporter and SAG-AFTRA members are eligible for 15 percent off their cell phone usage bill through the Union Plus benefits program. Click here for details and reference the FAN number 3508840.

"These are but a few of the many options for cell phones for the modern performer. I can’t stress how important it is to have a smartphone. Go into a reputable store, play with all the different phones, discuss with the customer service rep all the different carriers and phone plans to see what suits your needs best. Your agent will love you for it!

"In the next column, I will introduce you to some of the best apps and websites for the modern performer.

“The needs of the many outweigh the needs of the few, or the one.”
 — Spock, Star Trek 2: The Wrath of Khan"

This item was originally featured in the February 2013 local newsletter.