Guide Note

Smartphones are full-featured cell phones that have the functionality of personal computers.

Fast Facts

1. 1st Smartphone: 1992, IBM "Simon"
2. 1st Smartphones sold in 1996 by Nokia
3. Current top-selling Smartphone: Motorola Q

The first Smartphones were developed in the 1990s by IBM and Nokia. The initial models added simple applications to cell phones such as a calendar, calculator, games and a address book. As the technology has evolved in the years since, Smartphones now feature access to e-mail, Internet browsing, media players and other mobile applications in addition to simple phone usage.

When choosing a Smartphone, consider your budget, lifestyle and what you need the phone for. Top end models have more advanced features with a bigger price tag, while lower end models may not contain all the bells and whistles, but might be better suited for someone on a budget. Style and design should also be considered as some models are more attractively designed, but also are more likely to be scratched or damaged depending on the situation where they are to be used.

• Apple
• Nokia
• HTC
• Palm
• Samsung
• Research In Motion (RIM)
• Motorola