I’m nearing the end of my cell phone contract, so I need to decide what to do. The options are to keep my perfectly good cell phone – the one with features I’ve yet to master – or upgrade to a Bluetooth handset. The benefit of option A, of course, is a lower average cost per-month over the life of the phone. I’d be leveraging my initial investment. Sounds smart. But then I wouldn’t get to play with Bluetooth. Lower “cool” factor. I write about Bluetooth; might as well have it. Okay. Indulgence wins.

But wait. If I get a Bluetooth handset, I want to be able to use it in my car, so I’ll need a hands-free car kit. Let’s look online. A Bluetooth headset would probably work fine – presuming that I got one that would work with my new handset.

Having written about integrated Bluetooth systems, though, don’t I really want one that will work through my car’s audio system and mute the radio volume when someone calls me? Sure I do.

One review site recommends the Parrot CK3100, which is available from various professional installers. But is that the latest and greatest? Apparently not, according to the Parrot web site (www.parrot.biz/usa/products/pdf/carkits). There’s the 3200 LS-Color; a couple of models that will work with my portable navigation device (CK3300 and 3400 LS-GPS), except that I don’t have a portable navigation device yet, and they offer a system (RHYTHM N’BLUE) that will fit into my instrument panel.

That brief amount of research prompts me to rethink my options. What’s the primary value of Bluetooth for hands-free calling? It’s safer. For now, I can use a wired headset, and resolve not to dial and drive at the same time.

Yeah, but what if I were to upgrade my handset and then upgrade my car? Why then…..