A modern smartphone comes with enough hardware and software to be the only computer most people need most of the time. You can, of course, make calls, but you can also watch movies, message nearly anyone in the world, and take spectacular photos. You can also record, edit, and post movies without ever owning a computer. One could make an argument that today's smartphones are truly the embodiment of the most personal of computers ever made.
Why Are They Called Smartphones?
Key Smartphone Features
A smartphone runs an advanced operating system that supports mobile and web applications and is generally far more capable than only making and receiving calls. Today, there are two dominating operating systems: iOS for the iPhone and Android for phones from Google, Samsung, and others.
The operating systems are capable of multitasking and running software as powerful as desktop systems can run. In fact, many smartphones have operating systems that are far superior to their desktop counterparts—artificial intelligence integration is a great example.
Apps
Smartphones run applications that are, by and large, as robust as their desktop counterparts and, sometimes, better than what's available on the desktop. While all the basics are more than covered (email, messaging, word processing), you can easily find software to edit movies, create music, and even translate signs from one language to another in real time.
If you're new to using a smartphone, explore your phone's app store. There are plenty of really cool apps to discover.
Internet Access
Thanks to advanced antennas and better infrastructure, you can often find your fastest connection to the internet in the palm of your hand. Being able to stream 4K movies is now table stakes for any smartphone.
Messaging
Smartphones can handle SMS without any issue, but thanks to their ability to run more advanced software, nearly any form of messaging and communication is possible. Think about Apple's iMessage and FaceTime services and the endless social media services (which offer public and private messaging).
Advanced Hardware
Not only do today's smartphones have advanced screens with enough brightness to be seen in any sunny condition, but they also come with cameras that rival almost any camera you've ever owned and they most certainly have a better video camera than you've ever owned. Thanks to advanced microprocessors and better battery chemistry, these little computers last all day on just one charge.