However, most true smartphones share several basic characteristics: wireless internet support, touchscreens, instant connection into your email account, sat-nav style navigation features and downloadable applications.
The most iconic smartphone is Apple’s iPhone. It first appeared in 2007 and several variations have since launched, the most recent being the iPhone 4.
All smartphones rely on an operating system (OS) to function, just like computers rely on Windows. Various smartphone OS exist already, but the most common are Apple’s iPhone OS, Android, Blackberry and Windows mobile, each with their own pros and cons.
Manufacturers periodically release OS updates that aim to fix any operating bugs and may also add extra features to your smartphone.
Smartphones can also access 3G mobile networks – a feature known as mobile web – to give you web access while, say, sat in a coffee shop or airport.
Applications tend to be referred to as apps. These downloadable programs let you add new features to your smartphone to keep the device up-to-date and interesting.
Apps are downloaded from virtual stores – the iPhone’s is called the App Store – accessed directly from your smartphone. Apps are available for almost anything, the most common app categories are: games, entertainment, social networking, music, travel, sports, news, finance, weather and books.
Apple’s iPhone App Store currently boasts over 185,000 different apps. The Android OS’ app store – known as the Android Market – has around 40,000 apps.
Some apps are free and others carry a charge. Prices range from 50p to well over £100, so be careful what you click on.