Evolution of the cellular phone (Essay Sample)

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The evolution of the cellular phone into multi function appliance
When Dr. Martin Cooper, an engineer working for the Motorola Company, invented the cell phone, his concept was primarily to come up with a mobile wireless device that would facilitate communication between two parties over a distance, via radio technology (Kling 55). This first cellular phone was very simplistic in design, and its sole function was to make and receive calls. Back then, Dr. Cooper had no idea that it would evolve into one of the most phenomenal inventions with multiple functions as it has become at present. The cell phone today has massively advanced technologically in both its design and functionality. Today’s cell phone applications range from making mere calls to accessing the internet and providing entertainment, among others.
The cell phone has come a long way from being a basic communication tool to a multifunctional gadget, absolutely becoming integrated into the day-to-day activities of man. It has evolved into an indispensable necessity. Initially, communication via a cell phone was through voice calls only. With the advent of new technology, this progressed to include short messaging services, which allowed the sending of text messages between communicating parties. With time, development of video calls enabling live chats and integration of other functions such as the ability to access the internet steered this progress further. Today, it is possible to access one’s emails, obtain directions using Global Positioning System (GPS) services, monitor and track assets such as vehicles, socialize via social networks and even conduct electronic bank transactions at the push of a button (Srivastava 121).
The cell phone has become the main mode of entertainment for people on the move. Today’s cell phones come equipped with entertainment features such as media players, gaming applications, radio and even applications that enable one to watch television right from their mobile device. Leisure has become more diversified by the dawn of these technological advancements, making it possible and more fun to, for example, play games with multiplayer modes against other users remotely. One can listen to live radio broadcasts, with the option to record and playback later. The integration of digital cameras on mobile devices has made photography an even more exciting experience than the preceding years. This is because it is now possible to take photos or record videos at random moments. One can also choose to exchange these photos or videos with his or her family and friends (Tachikawa 65).
There has been integration of several other assortments into the modern cell phone. These include information exchange services such as Bluetooth and Infrared, which employ wireless protocols. With these technologies, it is possible to exchange files between two or more mobile devices in proximity. Modern cell phones also provide storage services. These devices come with expandable flash memories, which can be used to store data files. This enables one to access the information from any locatio...