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What are my options for talking on my iPhone hands-free during activities like driving?.

Going hands-free is a great way to enjoy your iPhone. There are three main methods of doing this.

First, you can get a wired headset, such as the Apple Stereo Headphones that come with your iPhone or a headset from another manufacturer. Wired headsets typically come with an inline microphone for speaking, and a button you can press to answer calls or skip to the next song when listening to music.

Second, you can skip the cables and go for a wireless Bluetooth headset. The first time you use a Bluetooth headset, you’ll need to “pair” (or make a connection between) the Bluetooth device and the iPhone. After that, any time you’re in range of your iPhone, your headset will connect to it automatically, leaving you free to answer and make calls without ever touching your phone.

Third, you can chat easily and more safely while driving by using “zero-install” Bluetooth-enabled speakerphone devices. As the name suggests, these units work in your car without permanent installation. Powered by your cigarette lighter, rechargeable or replaceable batteries, or even the sun, these tiny devices have a microphone and speaker and attach to your sun visor or dashboard. As with wireless Bluetooth headsets, you’ll need to pair your iPhone with the device the first time you use it.

What’s the difference between headphones and headsets?

Headphones are used for audio playback, while headsets include a built-in microphone for both audio playback and voice applications, such as phone calls.

With my hands-free Bluetooth device, how far can I wander from my iPhone?

The range of a Bluetooth connection is about 30 feet — more than enough to use in your car or any room in your house or office. With Bluetooth headsets, you don’t have to keep holding your phone in your hand or deal with cords. With the flexibility to put your phone in your pocket or set it down, you’re free to walk around or keep two hands on the steering wheel.

Can my Bluetooth headset reduce background noise so I can talk and listen more easily?

Many Bluetooth headsets include noise-reduction technologies that can reduce—and sometimes eliminate—background noise. Some track the physical vibrations of your skin to differentiate between your voice and background sounds. Others use multiple microphones and advanced signal processing to allow quiet personal conversations, even in noisy places.

I love playing my favorite songs on my iPhone. Is there an easy way to rock out and still take calls?

Absolutely. Many wired music-and-phone headphones compatible with iPhone 3G double as headsets by offering a built-in inline microphone and a call answer/end button. By using the same button you can play, pause, and skip songs on your iPhone. Now you can hear your music in rich, beautiful sound, then skip instantly to a hands-free conversation—your caller will never know the difference.

I talk a lot—a LOT. Does my Bluetooth headset have the juice to keep up with me?

These headsets may be small, but their batteries pack quite a punch. Although battery life varies, most Bluetooth headsets offer 4-8 hours of talk time on a single charge. In between calls, most headsets offer 3-7 days of standby time (turned on, waiting for a call) on a single charge.

I’m ready to go hands-free. What else do I need to know?

You’ll be using your headset a lot, so you should look for a comfortable fit. Many headsets offer a “fit kit” with several sizes of earpieces, so you can choose the one that gives you the best fit.

Second, choose a headset that’s easy for you to recharge. If you’re a mobile user, you’ll probably find it convenient to charge your device in the car. Headsets with more than one charging option give you maximum flexibility.

Finally, clips and cases reduce your chances of losing smaller earpieces and keep them handy when you need them.