smartphone

American  

[smahrt-fohn] / ˈsmɑrtˌfoʊn /

Or smart phone

noun

• smartphones
  plural

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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Other Word Forms

Noun Inflected Forms

• smartphones
  plural

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

See Examples For:

smartphone smartphones

Advancements in smartphone technology have made GoPro cameras irrelevant to “anyone beyond hardcore sports enthusiasts or professional creators,” one analyst says.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Sep. 3, 2026

But with every new rival — and every smartphone update featuring more sophisticated camera technology — GoPro became a little less relevant.

From MarketWatch ● Sep. 2, 2026

Micron stock was shrugging off CXMT's claimed advance in smartphone memory but investors might want to spread their bets.

From Barron's ● Sep. 1, 2026

All 50 states have introduced or passed some type of digital media or technology-related legislation, tackling smartphone use in schools, social media and chatbots, Vigil said.

From Los Angeles Times ● Sep. 1, 2026

“The average smartphone only uses two to seven watts to fully charge. These lenses need less than one watt.”

From "Warcross" by Marie Lu

Revolut has been a leader in rolling out financial services via smartphones, initially focusing on allowing customers to easily exchange currencies and make transfers.

From Barron's ● Sep. 3, 2026

GoPro’s struggles as a standalone company came down to too much competition and too many smartphones.

From MarketWatch ● Sep. 2, 2026

Despite a double-digit drop in 2Q smartphones sold to consumers compared with the previous year, shipment to retailers only fell 1%, Counterpoint data shows.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Aug. 28, 2026

Most parents want to give their children smartphones so they aren't left out, he says.

From BBC ● Aug. 28, 2026

Everybody whipped out their smartphones and started using the notes app to rearrange the letters.

From "Mr. Lemoncello's Library Olympics" by Chris Grabenstein