smartphone

American  

[smahrt-fohn] / ˈsmɑrtˌfoʊn /

Or smart phone

noun

1. a device that combines a cell phone with a handheld computer, typically offering internet access, data storage, email capability, etc.

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smartphone British  

/ ˈsmɑːtˌfəʊn /

noun

1. computing a mobile telephone with computer features that may enable it to interact with computerized systems, send e-mails, and access the web

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Etymology

Origin of smartphone

First recorded in 1995–2000

Compare meaning

How does smartphone compare to similar and commonly confused words? Explore the most common comparisons:

• cell phone vs. smartphone

Example Sentences

According to Morgan Stanley’s AlphaWise Smartphone Survey, 27% of global iPhone users, and 40% of users in China, are “extremely interested” in the idea of a foldable iPhone.

From MarketWatch • Mar. 23, 2026

Smartphone makers will pass through certain cost pressures to customers and some makers will likely face memory shortages, Citi says.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 13, 2026

Smartphone dependence has existed for years, but experts say it was compounded for people when the COVID-19 pandemic forced people indoors for weeks and months on end.

From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 21, 2026

Smartphone videos showed the young people in the bar continuing to party, unaware of the danger they were in until it was too late.

From Barron's • Jan. 31, 2026

Smartphone giants like Apple and Samsung also resisted the directive to pre-install the app on their phones.

From BBC • Dec. 3, 2025