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

The region is also home to some of the fastest growing smartphone markets, and social media is turbocharging the popularity of these products.

From BBC • Apr. 21, 2026

This has led to a run-up in costs, pressuring margins of PC and smartphone companies and leading to many of them raising prices.

From Barron's • Apr. 20, 2026

But his smartphone was keeping track of him.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 19, 2026

Kids aren’t the only ones with a smartphone addiction.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 18, 2026

I sigh with relief when a jogger trots past with a smartphone strapped to her arm and wires leading up to the buds in her ears.

From "Dragons in a Bag" by Zetta Elliott