Simon combines phone and handheld computer
A touch screen brings organizer software and fax to a mobile phone.
Density
Computing in a pocketOur World
Smartphones
Trace phone and computer convergence, touch interfaces, app platforms, network changes and durability rules.
Subject guide · scope, chapters & sources ↗Selected handset and platform milestones, not a claim that one company invented every smartphone feature. Announcement dates are distinguished from sales. The endpoint is EU rules applying from June 2025, not a survey of every current phone.
A phone opens into a pocket computer
The Nokia 9000 exposes a keyboard and web-capable interface.
BlackBerry adds a phone to mobile email
The 5810 brings voice calling into RIM’s messaging devices.
iPhone puts fingers on the interface
Apple introduces a multi-touch phone with music and web functions.
A store distributes phone software
Apple’s App Store begins with 500 apps.
The first Android phone is announced
T-Mobile announces the first Android-powered phone.
A handset combines mobile data channels
Samsung announces the Galaxy S4 LTE-A.
A 5G handset launch reaches Korea
Samsung sets the Galaxy S10 5G’s Korean availability date.
A folding display changes the handset shape
Galaxy Fold’s Korean launch introduces a screen that opens out.
Durability becomes part of phone regulation
EU rules address battery life, repair and energy labels.