As scientists have discovered ways to pack even more computing and data storage power into smaller and smaller microchips, the path was paved for the evolution of the Smartphone. Essentially, a Smartphone is a type of cellular telephone that offers both a wider and a better range of features than a standard mobile phone, in addition to traditional functions like calling, text messaging and contact information management. In fact, in many ways, they act more like miniature computers that fit in the palm of your hand than a telephone.
The defining feature of a Smartphone is that it runs an operating system, just like a regular desktop or laptop computer. This gives it a platform for running all sorts of specialized applications. There are five major Smartphone operating systems currently in use, with Symbian being the largest (in terms of subscribers) and most common. Others include the BlackBerry operating system, Windows Mobile, Android and Apple's iOS. All these operating systems permit users to run advanced programs and applications on their Smartphones, including mobile applications ("apps"), games, streaming video and much more.
In addition to running a computer-like operating system, Smartphones also have far more storage space than conventional cell phones. This allows the end user to capture and save significant amounts of rich media files, such as videos, images, documents and specialized programs. They also have faster processors, allowing users to take advantage of these many applications with far greater speed than was previously possible.
Finally, Smartphones tend to be larger in size, with larger usable viewing/interacting areas than regular cell phones. This is primarily what allows them to be used to capture and watch video, television and motion picture programming, but also creates a richer and more complex experience for the end consumer and contributes greatly to the convenience and functionality of these devices.