The Evolution Of Cell Phones

We’ve come a long way from the first cell phones. The
concept isn’t a new one; in fact in 1947 Douglas H.
Ring and W. Rae Young, Bell Labs engineers, proposed
hexagonal cells for mobile phones.

The real launch of the first portable phones was in
the early 80’s. At that time only the very wealthy or
"well to do" individuals had them.

They were very large and heavy. Not something to be
carried in your pant pocket or purse, this was
something that weighed a few pounds.

As big as they were though, they didn’t have a clear
sound and using them was a hassle. At first, all were
designed for permanent installation in vehicles
otherwise known as a "car phone".

Some of these bulky units were soon converted for use
as "transportable" phones the size of a briefcase.
Motorola introduced the first truly portable, handheld
phone.

The first digital cellular phone call was made in the
United States in 1990. They shrank considerably.

Cell phones used to be just analog phones, with the
sole purpose of providing the consumer with the
capability of making and receiving voice calls while
on the road.

As technology has advanced so have the capabilities of
the cell phone. They don’t just send and receive calls
now; they are capable of text messaging, emailing,
taking pictures and video clips.

The sizes have gotten smaller yet their abilities have
improved.

As we continue to advance, so will the abilities of
cell phones. In the next few years, cell phone
networks will move data at several megabits per
second, and will coexist with WiMax, Wi-Fi, and, for
TV, DVB-H or MediaFLO.