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

Meanwhile, smartphone competitors in China are seen as gaining an edge as shoppers there are encouraged to buy local brands.

From Barron's • Apr. 21, 2026

The winner was a humanoid called Lightning, developed by Chinese smartphone maker Honor.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 20, 2026

But his smartphone was keeping track of him.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 19, 2026

Matthew held out his smartphone, taking a video as they walked.

From "Book Scavenger" by Jennifer Chambliss Bertman