IBM Simon: The First Smartphone Unveiled

November 23rd, 1992

November 23rd, 1992

IBM Simon: The First Smartphone Unveiled
How Long Ago?

32 years, 3 months, 20 days ago

Location

Las Vegas, Nevada, USA

Category

Science & Technology

People
  • Frank J. Gibbons
  • Peter J. Elman
Links & References
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IBM Simon: The First Smartphone Unveiled

The IBM Simon, recognized as the first smartphone, was unveiled at COMDEX in Las Vegas, Nevada. This groundbreaking device combined a mobile phone with the features of a PDA, allowing users to make phone calls, send emails, and manage contacts. The Simon was notable for its touch screen and built-in applications, including a calendar and address book. Despite its large size and limited battery life, it garnered attention for its innovative approach to mobile communication.

First smartphone combining phone and PDA features

Unveiled at COMDEX tech trade show in Las Vegas

Included touchscreen, email, and contact management

Paved the way for future smartphone innovations

What Happened?

At COMDEX, the world's leading trade show for computer technology, IBM introduced the Simon Personal Communicator, a revolutionary device that advanced the concept of mobile communications. The Simon was developed by IBM in collaboration with Mitsubishi Electric and was a prototype that paved the way for future smartphones. With its 4.5-inch touchscreen and ability to send and receive faxes and emails, the device was the first to merge telephony with computing, providing a glimpse into the future of mobile technology. The Simon came with a stylus and included various applications like an address book, calendar, and even a simple email program, foreshadowing the capabilities of modern smartphones. Despite weighing over 8 ounces and having a low-resolution monochrome screen, its versatility fascinated tech enthusiasts and industry insiders alike.

The unveiling of the Simon at COMDEX in Las Vegas marked a significant technological milestone. As one of the first devices to incorporate elements of both phone and personal digital assistant (PDA), the Simon's introduction came at a time when mobile technology was beginning to evolve rapidly. IBM showcased the device as a way to streamline communication and enhance productivity, appealing to business professionals and tech-savvy consumers. Although the Simon was not a commercial success, selling only about 50,000 units by the time production ended, its influence can be seen in subsequent smartphone development. The device acted as a precursor to modern smartphones, demonstrating the potential for mobile internet access and the integration of applications, which are standard today.

Why Does it Matter?

The introduction of the IBM Simon is interesting due to its role as a foundational technology that laid the groundwork for the smartphones we use today. It was the first mobile device to offer functionalities beyond voice communication, hinting at the future of connectivity and smart technology. The Simon is a reminder of how far mobile communication has advanced since the early 1990s, influencing countless innovations in personal computing and mobile communications.

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