9781422272930

Smartphones have come a long way in 40 years, from a bulky two-way radio to a handheld supercomputer.

scientists, we can now enjoy the luxury of touchscreen interfaces, optimal cell connection, and even wireless accessory capability. In the past, a mobile phone was not much different than a two‑way radio. Cell phone users could call a friend or family member and maybe play a few games, but the devices didn’t offer any other life-changing features. The thing that makes a smartphone “smart” is the fact that it is truly a miniaturized supercomputer. Besides being able to bring the internet to the palm of your hand, pinpoint your location down to the foot, and talk to someone almost anywhere in the world, it has so many other extra capabilities. The high-tech camera, external speakers, and the apps you download for your device are all features with roots in physics, chemistry, and computer science.

SMARTPHONES AND COMPUTER SCIENCE

Before smartphones were introduced to the world, many people used two devices to keep track of their daily lives and communicate with

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SMARTPHONES