Hi Lindsay
I do not know what the "smartphone" stuff is, never having used the things at all
A smartphone is a tablet computer with mobile phone capabilities. Runs [for instance] Android (developed by Google, Linux based) with Apps (Java based). A smartphone will use mobile broadband while out, and wifi while in the house. Most phones sold now are smartphones, and if you don't need those capabilities it's wise to stay well away from it as the magic obviously chews battery.
all I need is something I can use to call for a taxi (there are 2 local companies serving the area), it does cost around $50 or so, its still though the cheapest option and its unlikely to be needed to often.
Righty, so just a phone. That's what I thought which is why I suggested something like the Nokie 3310. You want it to just do a phonecall without surrounding fuss, and you want a battery that lasts so you don't have to worry about recharging it all the time.
Access to a signal is not an issue here, There is good coverage from Telstra and Optus. I have Mobile broadband at home using GVtelco (Optus 4G), They a have a 1 gig a month plan $11.50 a month. I assume I need a phone thats not locked to a particular network (thats a problem with 3/4G broadband modem dongles) . Hmm JB Hifi has the Nokia 3310 for only $89.
Ya sounds about right. Perhaps you can get a good deal from Optus for a mobile SIM card for the phone (or even a plan with Phone+SIM), given you already have another monthly gig with them. Regards, Arjen.