In a few more months, my contract with AT&T (formerly Cingular whence we first met) ends, and so I'm out on the prowl for a new deal and a new phone (can AT&T still do it for me?). Honestly, I know that there is a super batch of new phones arriving to shelves in the next few weeks, but currently I just can't rationalize spending $250-$350 for a smartphone, when another $50 will get me the iPhone. But, I'm sworn to staying iPhone-free until its next generation model makes it to market. So, let's talk about the Motorola Ming, also known as the "unlocked phone that can do it all."

I like Ming because it runs a Linux-based interface (mmmm open source). The interface helps any user easily navigate between entertainment, contacts, documents, and more. Ming has a 2-megapixel camera for photos, a business card reader to store your contacts, and 8MB of internal memory.

Price: No contract! $280-329 via Amazon (early adopter exclusive) in black, red, or white.