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

Citi lowers its Xiaomi 2026-2028 smartphone shipments to 135 million, 140 million and 145 million, respectively.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 1, 2026

Apple navigated the typically difficult spring season to claim the top global smartphone spot, thanks to the success of the iPhone 17e and nifty supply-chain moves.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 30, 2026

Meanwhile, overall smartphone shipments are expected to decline this year due to memory-chip shortages, a factor behind Bernstein analyst Stacy Rasgon’s recent downgrade of Qualcomm’s stock.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 29, 2026

Getting another major customer to compete with Apple in the smartphone space would be a huge relief for Qualcomm.

From Barron's • Apr. 27, 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