The world’s first smartphone is a far cry from the modern devices we tout with us daily. IBM was the first to pioneer the concept of a smartphone. While cell phones have been around since the 1970s, there was nothing quite like the device we’re covering today. So, let’s take a step down memory lane and see what exactly users on the cutting edge of technology were using back in 1992.
IBM’s Simon
IBM has been at the forefront of computing since the 1950s. However, 1992 would see the announcement of the Simon Personal Communicator, or SPC. The first smartphone was a massive device, more akin to Apple’s ill-fated Newton than a modern iPhone or Android device.
However, the possibilities for a portable device that handled all your computing needs were somewhat novel. After all, cell phones were used for calling only circa 1992 in the United States. SMS had yet to arrive.
The First Smartphone Apps
One of the killer features of the Simon was the apps it contained on the device itself. Now, these weren’t the types of apps you’d consider worthwhile in 2024. You weren’t connecting to the mobile internet, there was no video streaming. However, it bridged the concept of a cell phone and a personal digital assistant.
The first apps were fairly limited in scope, aimed primarily at business usage. However, if you needed a portable calculator, address book, calendar, and rudimentary email support, the SPC more than had you covered.
The first smartphone launched officially in 1994, but this trailblazer wasn’t destined for greatness.
Limited Coverage
When the SPC hit the market in 1994, it was only available in 15 states, which severely limited its potential market share. A steep asking price of $1,000 also put it out of the range of most tech enthusiasts. We don’t flinch at expensive phones these days, but back in 1994, that was a small fortune to invest in a device like this.
There were other drawbacks as well, like the paltry one hour of operation on a full charge. The handset itself was bulky. It didn’t have a capacitive touchscreen, so all inputs required a stylus to make any sort of changes.
Back to the Drawing Board
The first smartphone is an interesting, but failed venture. The tech simply wasn’t there to make the most of its capabilities. 2007 would see the introduction of the Apple iPhone, nearly 13 years after the SPC launched and came tumbling down.
It is hard to imagine a world without smartphones today. However, back in 1992, you were concerned with battery life and the clarity of calls. Times have certainly changed, but the first smartphone codified some of the features we expect to see as pre-loaded applications today.
The image featured at the top of this post is ©Bcos47 / Public Domain.