Cell Phones

Cell phones are one of the most used forms of technology in the world today. Cell phones have evolved immensely since 1983, both in design and function. From the first phone which only had one hour of talk time to the iphone 3G which can take a picture, play a video, or run one of the thousands of applications from the Apple Store. There are thousands of models of cell phones that have been developed between 1983 and now. Cell phones started out with the first generation. Motorola introduced the DynaTAC mobile phone October 13, 1983 and was dubbed the “Brick”. The first commercial cellular system begins operating in Chicago in 1983. First Generation only allowed one hour of talk time and eight hours of standby. It wasn’t long before the second generation cell phones were developed, creating more advanced batteries and more energy efficient electronics. The second generation or 2G network introduced SMS text messaging. Today the general public prefers sending a text message to placing voice calls. 2G also introduced the ability to access media content such as ringtones on mobile phones. Today the most phones run on the third generation network or 3G networks. By the end of 2007 there were 295 million subscribers on the 3G networks worldwide and has grown since. As technology continued to advance, a wide variety of accessories became available to make the cell phones more convenient and attractive. Ear pieces allow consumers to use their phones without having to actually hold their phone. Designer covers and a huge variety of unique ringtones for phones have been developed, making one’s phone more attractive to the eye. Cell phones today are made super-skinny in order to fit in smaller spaces and not take up as much space. In 2006 technology took another step forward with MobiTV, where it is now possible to watch TV on one’s cellular phone. Today there is over $118 billion in capital investment and grows $20 billion a year. 200,000 times a day, someone uses a wireless phone to call for help. Cell phones are one of the most popular forms of technology. The world uses them on day to day bases. They will continue to advance and evolve every year.