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 brain-computer interface will become a technology like the smartphone, where the vast majority of people have one,” says He.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 6, 2026

As Apple expands into the budget computer market, the company is also looking to seize share from its smartphone competitors during a period of memory crunch.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 6, 2026

Screen Sanity recommends introducing technology to kids in stages: first, a screen-free landline, then a smartwatch, followed by a stripped-down smartphone with restrictions.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 6, 2026

Almost all parents whose children attend the school - 97% - have now agreed not to buy them a smartphone until they reach second-level education.

From BBC • Apr. 3, 2026

I helped myself to an apple and saw another smartphone nearby.

From "City of the Plague God" by Sarwat Chadda