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

Appeared in the April 27, 2026, print edition as 'From the Telegraph to the Smartphone: How IT Unified a Nation'.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 26, 2026

According to Morgan Stanley’s AlphaWise Smartphone Survey, 27% of global iPhone users, and 40% of users in China, are “extremely interested” in the idea of a foldable iPhone.

From MarketWatch • Mar. 23, 2026

Smartphone makers had to limit their Lunar New Year discounts to try and offset the soaring cost of memory, the firm said.

From Barron's • Mar. 19, 2026

Smartphone dependence has existed for years, but experts say it was compounded for people when the COVID-19 pandemic forced people indoors for weeks and months on end.

From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 21, 2026

Smartphone makers must also "make an endeavour" to provide the app through software updates for devices that are out of factories but haven't been sold yet, the statement said.

From BBC • Dec. 2, 2025