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

A Green Party spokesperson said they are "deeply concerned about the potential harms caused to children and young people by smartphone usage and social media."

From BBC • Apr. 22, 2026

The company’s 1Q results came in stronger, with management optimistic on demand for its equipment from smartphone manufacturers, the analyst says.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 21, 2026

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

This has led to a run-up in costs, pressuring margins of PC and smartphone companies and leading to many of them raising prices.

From Barron's • Apr. 20, 2026

Friends would teach him how to brush his teeth, use a debit card, and fool around with a smartphone.

From "Escape from Camp 14: One Man's Remarkable Odyssey from North Korea to Freedom in the West" by Blaine Harden