After 5 years with my regular flip-style cellphone, I am thisclose to upgrading to a smartphone. Due to Verizon's superior coverage and the fact that their website says I qualify for new-every-two, I'm seriously looking at an HTC Incredible. (The Incredible's amazing reviews are also pushing me in that direction, and of course HTC'S sponsorship of both a men's and women's cycling team doesn't hurt.)

But, I'm stuck on the significant increase in the monthly cost that is necessary for a smartphone. It will be more than double what I am paying now, what with the added cost of the data plan and texting.

I can think of situations where it would be handy to have web access right in my pocket -- like when I was out riding my bike last summer and saw a huge black cloud in the sky despite the utter lack of rain in the forecast. It might have saved me a soaking if I had been able to check a weather map to see what direction it was going and how fast it was going there. And when the electricity went out at work the other day, people with smartphones were still able to send email to let our clients know that we weren't just ignoring their attempts to reach us. And back to bike rides, how nice would it be to have a phone and camera all in one, since that would be one less thing to cram into my seat wedge when I want to take pics on a long ride.

But still, it will hurt to see my monthly bill go up so much. Can anyone out there tell me how great they are and that they're totally worth the added cost?

Thanks!