The Mobile Universe
It’s safe to say that everyone owns a cell phone, has used a cell phone, or at least know what one is. Cell phones are just one example of the broad realm of mobile communications.
Mobile communications typically refers to cell phones, or any electronic device that communicates with another device or computer. They are able to communicate with one another via a network and satellite. These are also known as “cell sites”. The first cell phone was designed by Dr. Martin Cooper for Motorola in 1973. His design didn’t hit the market or become available to the public until 1983, and even then it was a luxurious, rare item.
Cell phones have evolved over the years from the original boxy two-way radio to the tiny hand-held device it is today. Cell phones also have also evolved in their capabilities and support many additional services such as Internet access, text messaging, gaming, Bluetooth and camera functions. Cell phones manufactured and sold in stores come standard with these functions today.
Mobile communications have even further evolved with Smartphones. Smartphones include specifically the Blackberry and iPhone. These Smartphones have all capabilities and functions in one hand held device. They have Internet access, email, calendar and camera functions, text messaging and instant messaging, and GPS capabilities. What else could you ask for in a phone?
Applications are a very helpful and popular Smartphone function. “Apps” are downloadable programs that come in all different sizes and features for different hobbies, interests, and purposes. Apps are available for Facebook, sports, books, food and recipes, education, and even movies. Some Apps are free and others cost a small amount of money. The costs range from $0.99 to several dollars.
The telephony industry really hit it big with mobile communications. In 1990, approximately 12.4 million people were using cell phones or subscribed to a cellular plan. By the end of 2009, it was recorded that 4.6 billion were using cell phones, which included Smartphones and the like.
As great as mobile communications are, it has its pitfalls like any piece of technology. Mobile communications has created a giant web of interaction all over the globe, however, it has also become a hazard. The only other industry to double in business with the rise in mobile communications is the auto body and repair industry. So many vehicle accidents have occurred due to drivers either talking or texting while driving, and unfortunately, many lives were lost due to this fact. Mobile communications and technology is meant to help us, but abusing their benefits will only produce negative, and even hazardous effects.
The telephony industry and mobile communications, or cell phones and Smartphones have really become necessary tools in our lives. So try and answer the question again. What would you do without your cell phone or Smartphone?
Learn more at Charles Philip Granere and his admiration for information technology.
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