Phone Components 101: All The Tech That Makes Your Phone Smart
What makes a smartphone smart? Here’s a detailed guide that covers off all of your phone’s most important components and what they do…
Understanding your smartphone isn’t as daunting as it might initially seem. By breaking down the different parts and components, you’ll realize that each has its specific role to play in making your mobile device function optimally.
The Hardware: Essential Components of Your Smartphone
The Processor (CPU)
Smartphone processors, or CPUs, are the brains behind your device’s operations. The vast majority of chipsets in phones today are built by either Apple (in its iPhones), Qualcomm (with its Snapdragon platform), and MediaTek. The configuration of a CPU, meaning its clock speeds, cores, size (in nm) and its GPU all impact a phone’s performance.
Let’s explore these factors in more detail.
Clock Speed
The clock speed, measured in gigahertz (GHz), represents how many calculations a processor can make per second. A higher clock speed means that the processor can handle more data quicker, making your phone more responsive and fast. However, it’s important to note that higher clock speed also means more heat generation and battery consumption.
Cores
Processors can have multiple cores. Each core can run its own calculations simultaneously, so a multi-core processor can perform more tasks at the same time. Today, most smartphones come with dual-core (two), quad-core (four), hexa-core (six), or octa-core (eight) processors.
Nanometers (nm)
The size of a processor chip is measured in nanometers (nm). This measurement refers to the distance between transistors, the tiny electronic switches that carry out the calculations. The smaller this distance, the more transistors can fit onto the chip, and the faster and more energy efficient it can be. As of my knowledge cutoff in 2021, chips as small as 5nm are being produced.
Graphic Processing Unit (GPU)
A GPU takes care of rendering images, animations, and videos on your phone’s screen. A powerful GPU is crucial for activities that require intense graphics, such as gaming or video editing.
RAM (Random Access Memory)
RAM, or Random Access Memory, plays a crucial role in your smartphone’s performance. It serves as temporary storage that your phone’s processor uses to store and access data from running applications. Let’s delve deeper into different types of RAM, how iPhone and Android utilize RAM, and how RAM has developed over the past decade.
Types of RAM in Smartphones
There are various types of RAM used in smartphones, with the most common being Dynamic RAM (DRAM) and its derivatives, including LPDDR (Low Power Double Data Rate).
LPDDR4 and LPDDR5 are the most commonly used in high-end smartphones. These types of RAM are optimized for high performance and low power consumption, crucial for mobile devices.
iPhone vs. Android: RAM Usage
The way iPhones and Android phones use RAM can differ significantly due to differences in their operating systems.
iPhones typically have less RAM than high-end Android phones. This is largely due to the tightly integrated hardware and software of Apple devices, which allows iOS to manage memory more efficiently. iOS aggressively terminates background apps and services, helping to preserve memory and battery life.
Android devices, on the other hand, tend to keep more applications running in the background. This is due to the design philosophy of Android that encourages multitasking. Therefore, Android devices often come with larger amounts of RAM to accommodate this behavior.
Evolution of RAM Over the Last Decade
RAM in smartphones has seen significant growth over the last decade. Around 2010, smartphones had around 512MB to 1GB of RAM. Fast forward to the 2020s, it’s common to see smartphones with 6GB, 8GB, and even up to 16GB of RAM.
This increase in RAM is driven by advancements in mobile technology and the growing demand for powerful smartphones capable of multitasking, running memory-intensive apps, and supporting advanced gaming.
Internal Storage
Internal storage in your smartphone is like a virtual cabinet where all your digital files reside. Whether it’s your favorite music, photos from your last vacation, important apps, or the latest movies, everything is stored here. Let’s take a more in-depth look at how internal storage works and how it has evolved over the years.
Types of Internal Storage
The primary type of internal storage in smartphones is flash memory, particularly NAND flash memory. This type of storage is non-volatile, meaning it doesn’t lose the stored information when the device is powered off. Flash memory is fast and durable, with solid-state technology that has no moving parts.
eMMC (embedded MultiMediaCard) and UFS (Universal Flash Storage) are two common types of flash storage used in smartphones. UFS is the newer and faster technology, offering higher data transfer speeds and more efficient power consumption.
Storage Capacity
The storage capacity of a smartphone, measured in gigabytes (GB) or terabytes (TB), determines how much data it can hold. Earlier smartphones offered storage options of 8GB or 16GB, but these have become largely inadequate due to larger app sizes and higher quality media files.
Modern smartphones typically offer storage capacities from 64GB up to 512GB or even 1TB in some premium models.
Importance of Adequate Storage
Having adequate storage in your smartphone is crucial. If your phone’s internal storage is almost full, it can slow down the device’s performance. Additionally, you may find yourself constantly deleting files to free up space, which can be inconvenient.
That said, not everyone needs a phone with 1TB of storage. If you primarily stream music and movies, use cloud storage, and don’t play many large games, you might be perfectly content with a lower storage capacity.
External Storage
Internal storage in your smartphone is like a virtual cabinet where all your digital files reside. Whether it’s your favorite music, photos from your last vacation, important apps, or the latest movies, everything is stored here. Let’s take a more in-depth look at how internal storage works and how it has evolved over the years.
Types of Internal Storage
The primary type of internal storage in smartphones is flash memory, particularly NAND flash memory. This type of storage is non-volatile, meaning it doesn’t lose the stored information when the device is powered off. Flash memory is fast and durable, with solid-state technology that has no moving parts.
eMMC (embedded MultiMediaCard) and UFS (Universal Flash Storage) are two common types of flash storage used in smartphones. UFS is the newer and faster technology, offering higher data transfer speeds and more efficient power consumption. As of my knowledge cutoff in 2021, high-end smartphones typically use UFS 2.1, UFS 3.0, or UFS 3.1.
Storage Capacity
The storage capacity of a smartphone, measured in gigabytes (GB) or terabytes (TB), determines how much data it can hold. Earlier smartphones offered storage options of 8GB or 16GB, but these have become largely inadequate due to larger app sizes and higher quality media files. Modern smartphones typically offer storage capacities from 64GB up to 512GB or even 1TB in some premium models.
Importance of Adequate Storage
Having adequate storage in your smartphone is crucial. If your phone’s internal storage is almost full, it can slow down the device’s performance. Additionally, you may find yourself constantly deleting files to free up space, which can be inconvenient.
That said, not everyone needs a phone with 1TB of storage. If you primarily stream music and movies, use cloud storage, and don’t play many large games, you might be perfectly content with a lower storage capacity.
Expandable Storage
Not all smartphones come with the option of expandable storage. But for those that do, microSD cards can be a handy feature that adds flexibility to your device’s storage. Let’s dive deeper into the world of microSD cards and understand how they can help you optimize your smartphone’s storage.
What are MicroSD Cards?
MicroSD cards are a type of removable flash memory card used for storing information. They are incredibly small in size but can pack a significant amount of data. As of my knowledge cutoff in 2021, microSD cards are available with capacities ranging from as low as 2GB up to 1TB.
Advantages of Using MicroSD Cards
The primary advantage of using a microSD card is that it allows you to expand your phone’s storage beyond the built-in capacity.
This can be particularly useful if:
- You regularly consume media content, such as music and movies, and prefer to download rather than stream.
- You frequently use your smartphone for capturing high-resolution photos and videos.
- You play large games that require substantial storage.
- You prefer to keep your media files separate from your device’s internal storage for easier management or for security and privacy reasons.
MicroSD Card Speed Classes
Not all microSD cards are created equal. They come in different speed classes, which indicate the minimum sustained writing speed. This is crucial when you’re recording videos, especially at high resolutions. The speed classes are often denoted as Class 2, 4, 6, 10, UHS 1, UHS 3, V10, V30, V60, and V90. A higher class number indicates a faster speed.
MicroSD Cards and Smartphone Compatibility
It’s important to note that not all smartphones support the microSD card feature. Most iPhones, for example, do not offer expandable storage, while many Android phones do. However, even among those Android phones that do, the maximum supported microSD card size varies. So always check your phone’s specifications before purchasing a microSD card.
Battery
The battery of your smartphone is the lifeline that powers all its components. It determines how long your device can operate before needing a recharge. Let’s delve deeper into the aspects of smartphone batteries, such as their longevity, replaceability, and charging standards.
Battery Capacity and Longevity
The capacity of a smartphone battery is measured in milliamp-hours (mAh). The higher the mAh, the larger the energy storage and, typically, the longer the battery life between charges. Modern smartphones generally have batteries ranging from around 2,000mAh to over 5,000mAh.
However, battery life doesn’t solely depend on the mAh rating. It’s also influenced by other factors such as the phone’s hardware, software, and usage patterns. For example, playing graphics-intensive games will deplete a battery faster than browsing the web or sending text messages.
Replaceable vs. Non-replaceable Batteries
In the early years of smartphones, most devices came with replaceable batteries. If your battery stopped holding a charge, you could simply pop in a new one. However, with the advent of slimmer, waterproof phones, most modern smartphones now have non-replaceable (also known as non-removable or embedded) batteries. These batteries can only be replaced by a professional technician and usually involve some cost.
Fast Charging
Fast charging technology has become increasingly common in smartphones. It allows your device to be charged much faster than traditional methods, proving handy for those on-the-go moments when you need a quick battery boost.
Different smartphone manufacturers have their proprietary fast charging technologies, such as Qualcomm’s Quick Charge, OnePlus’s Warp Charge, and Apple’s Fast Charge, among others.
Wireless Charging
Wireless charging is another technology that’s gaining popularity. This feature allows you to charge your smartphone by simply placing it on a charging pad, eliminating the need for cables. It’s based on the principle of electromagnetic induction.
Some of the standards for wireless charging include Qi (pronounced “chee”) and PMA, with Qi being the most widely adopted.
While wireless charging can be more convenient, it’s generally slower than wired charging. However, advancements are being made, and some phones now support fast wireless charging.
Screen
Your smartphone screen is not just an output device for your phone; it’s the interactive gateway to all its features. There are mainly two types of screen technologies used in smartphones: LCD and OLED.
Each has its own advantages and characteristics. Let’s break down these technologies and understand factors like nits and contrast ratios that determine the quality of a display.
LCD (Liquid Crystal Display) Screens
LCD screens have been used in smartphones for many years. These displays utilize a backlight to illuminate liquid crystals that form the pixels you see on screen. LCD technology has evolved over the years, with advancements such as IPS (In-Plane Switching) that offer better color accuracy and wider viewing angles compared to older LCD technologies.
There are some advantages to LCD screens. They are typically more affordable, can display bright whites very well, and are often easier to view under direct sunlight. However, they are also generally thicker and less power-efficient compared to OLED displays.
OLED (Organic Light Emitting Diodes) Screens
OLED displays are a more recent development in smartphone screens. Instead of using a backlight, each pixel in an OLED display emits its own light. This allows for deep black levels since pixels can be completely turned off, leading to high contrast ratios.
OLED screens are known for their superior color accuracy, sharpness, and power efficiency, especially when displaying darker themes. They are also thinner and can be made flexible, enabling curved or folding screen designs. However, OLED screens are generally more expensive to produce and are more prone to burn-in over time compared to LCD screens.
Nits and Brightness
Nit is a unit of measurement used to quantify the brightness of a display. The higher the nit count, the brighter the screen can get. This is particularly important when using your smartphone in bright environments, such as under direct sunlight, where a higher nit count will make the screen easier to see.
Contrast Ratio
The contrast ratio is the difference between the brightest white and the darkest black that a screen can display. A higher contrast ratio usually leads to a more vibrant and lifelike image. As mentioned, OLED screens typically have a higher contrast ratio than LCDs, since they can completely turn off individual pixels to achieve true blacks.
Cameras
The camera is one of the most crucial features of a smartphone. With every passing year, smartphone camera technology continues to evolve, bringing professional photography capabilities into the palm of our hands.
Let’s delve into the world of smartphone cameras, discuss common specifications, and explore features like HDR and OIS that contribute to overall image quality.
Megapixels and Aperture
The resolution of a camera is often measured in megapixels (MP), where each megapixel represents one million pixels. Theoretically, a higher number of pixels can capture more detail. However, megapixels aren’t the only factor determining image quality. Sensor size, lens quality, and image processing software also play a vital role.
The aperture of a camera lens, denoted by ‘f’ followed by a number (like f/1.8), is the opening through which light enters the camera. A lower aperture number implies a larger opening, which allows more light to enter, resulting in better low-light photos.
HDR (High Dynamic Range)
HDR is a technique that captures a series of photos at different exposures and combines them to produce a single image. This method improves the detail in both the brightest and darkest areas of the photo, resulting in an image that’s closer to how our eyes perceive the world. Many smartphones now offer HDR mode to enhance photo quality.
OIS (Optical Image Stabilization)
OIS is a feature that reduces blur caused by the movement of the camera or the subject. It involves physically moving parts of the camera to counteract hand shake and other disturbances. OIS is particularly useful when taking photos in low-light conditions, where the camera needs to be held steady for longer periods to allow more light in.
Zoom Capabilities
Most smartphones come with digital zoom, but more advanced devices now offer optical zoom and hybrid zoom. Optical zoom uses different lenses or lens positions to get closer to the subject without losing image quality. Hybrid zoom combines optical zoom with software enhancements to allow for even more detailed close-up shots.
Additional Features
Other features like Night Mode, Portrait Mode, and Ultra-Wide Angle lenses contribute to the versatility and quality of smartphone cameras. Night Mode enhances low-light photography, Portrait Mode creates a depth-of-field effect for professional-looking portraits, and Ultra-Wide Angle lenses allow for a broader field of view.
The Software: Powering the Operations
Operating System (OS)
The operating system (OS) is the heart of your smartphone. It’s the primary software that controls all the hardware and applications, acting as an intermediary between you and your device. The two most popular OSs in the smartphone world are Android, developed by Google, and iOS, developed by Apple. Let’s delve deeper into the development, characteristics, and differences of these two leading smartphone OSs.
Android: Open Source and Highly Customizable
Android is an open-source operating system, meaning its source code is accessible and modifiable by device manufacturers, app developers, and even users to some extent. It was developed by Google, and its open nature has led to a wide range of devices, from budget to premium, running on Android.
Development and Distribution
Android’s development process is primarily carried out by Google. However, because it’s open-source, manufacturers like Samsung, Xiaomi, or OnePlus can take the base Android OS (referred to as ‘stock’ Android) and modify it to create their own ‘skins’ or custom UI (User Interface), adding unique features and designs.
The distribution of updates in the Android ecosystem can be fragmented. When Google releases a new Android version, it’s up to the individual manufacturers to implement this update into their devices, which can lead to delays.
Customization and Flexibility
Android’s main strength lies in its flexibility and customization. Users can change almost every aspect of the system, from the home screen layout to the default apps for certain functions. It also supports a wide array of apps and services, not only those developed by Google.
iOS: Seamless Integration and Simplicity
iOS, on the other hand, is a closed-source operating system, developed and used exclusively by Apple for its iPhone line. The closed nature of iOS ensures a consistent experience across all devices.
Development and Distribution
iOS is developed entirely by Apple, ensuring that the hardware and software of an iPhone are closely integrated. This often results in smoother operation and better optimization compared to Android devices.
When Apple releases a new iOS version, it becomes immediately available to all supported devices, ensuring a uniform distribution of updates.
User Experience and Ecosystem
iOS is known for its simplicity and ease of use. The user interface is clean, and there is less scope for customization compared to Android. However, this simplicity often translates to a more straightforward user experience.
One of iOS’s main advantages is its seamless integration with the Apple ecosystem. If you use other Apple devices like the iPad or MacBook, having an iPhone ensures a synchronized, smooth cross-device experience.
Apps
Applications, or “apps”, are the primary tools that add functionality to your smartphone. They turn your device from a mere communication tool into a versatile multi-purpose device, capable of everything from social media browsing with apps like Instagram, to managing your fitness routine, to controlling smart home devices.
Let’s dive into the world of apps, focusing on those developed for Android and iOS platforms, and explore how they’re developed and their key differences.
Android Apps: Java and Kotlin
Android apps are primarily developed using Java and Kotlin. Java, a well-established programming language, has been the preferred choice for Android app development since the platform’s inception. However, Google announced Kotlin as an official language for Android development in 2017. Kotlin is modern, expressive, and is designed to interoperate fully with Java.
Development and Distribution
Android app development typically happens within Android Studio, Google’s official Integrated Development Environment (IDE). It provides tools like a code editor, debugger, and profiler, all in a single interface.
Developed apps are distributed mainly through the Google Play Store, but Android’s open nature allows distribution via other platforms as well, like the Amazon Appstore or even directly through APK files.
iOS Apps: Swift and Objective-C
iOS apps are developed using Objective-C and Swift. Objective-C was the primary language used for iOS and OS X (now macOS) for several decades. However, in 2014, Apple introduced Swift as a more modern, safer, and more powerful language.
Development and Distribution
Development of iOS apps typically occurs in Xcode, Apple’s IDE. Like Android Studio, it combines multiple development tools into one package, making it easier for developers to write and test their code.
After development, apps are primarily distributed through the Apple App Store. Due to the closed nature of iOS, distributing apps through other means is typically not possible, unlike Android.
Key Differences
- App Approval Process: Apple has a stringent app approval process to ensure the quality and safety of apps on the App Store. In contrast, while Google does scan for harmful apps, its process is less rigorous than Apple’s, which can lead to a larger number of apps but also potentially more rogue applications.
- Revenue Models: Android users tend to prefer free apps with in-app purchases or ads, while iOS users are generally more willing to pay for apps. This difference can impact the revenue model an app developer chooses.
- Design Philosophy: Google’s Material Design and Apple’s Human Interface Guidelines provide different design philosophies for app development. This results in apps often having a slightly different look and feel on Android and iOS.
User Interface (UI)
The User Interface (UI) is the gateway through which users interact with their devices. It encompasses the layout of apps, the design of icons, the appearance of buttons, and all other visual elements on your screen. Let’s focus on the UI of the two most popular smartphone operating systems, Android and iOS, discuss their development, history, and their pros and cons.
Android UI: Customizable and Versatile
Android’s UI is known for its high degree of customizability and versatility which is one of the main reasons that it is used and loved by modders and tinkerers. You can flash Android phones with custom ROMs and even tweak key aspects of the phone like its CPU clockspeed.
Development and History
Android, developed by Google, launched in 2008. Its initial interface was relatively basic, but it evolved quickly, with each major update bringing significant UI improvements. Android’s interface took a significant leap forward in 2014 with the introduction of Material Design, which added more depth, color, and movement to the UI.
Customization
The most significant advantage of Android’s UI is its customizability. Users can modify almost every part of the interface, from the home screen layout and lock screen behavior to the default apps for specific tasks.
Variety
Given Android’s open-source nature, different manufacturers often customize the base Android UI to differentiate their devices. This leads to a variety of user interfaces like Samsung’s One UI, OnePlus’s OxygenOS, and Xiaomi’s MIUI, each providing a unique user experience.
iOS UI: Consistency and Simplicity
On the other hand, iOS, developed by Apple, prides itself on offering a UI that is consistent across all devices and easy to use.
Development and History
The first iteration of iOS (then iPhone OS) came with the original iPhone in 2007. It introduced the world to the concept of a touch-based UI. The UI remained relatively unchanged until iOS 7 in 2013, which introduced a flat, minimalist design that still forms the basis of the current iOS interface.
Ease of Use
iOS’s UI is renowned for its simplicity. The home screen layout, with its grid of apps, is straightforward and intuitive, even for first-time smartphone users. The UI is more consistent across different devices and apps, mainly because Apple provides strict guidelines for app developers.
Ecosystem Integration
One of iOS’s major advantages is its seamless integration with Apple’s ecosystem. The user interface and experience are consistent across other Apple devices like iPads and Macs, leading to a unified user experience.
Connectivity Features: Keeping You Connected
Wi-Fi
Wi-Fi, short for Wireless Fidelity, is a technology that allows your smartphone to connect to the internet wirelessly. It has revolutionized the way we access the internet, and understanding its development, workings, and significance can help us appreciate this indispensable technology even more.
The Evolution of Wi-Fi
Wi-Fi has come a long way since its inception. The first version of Wi-Fi, called 802.11, was introduced by the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) in 1997. However, it was slow by today’s standards, offering speeds of just 2 megabits per second.
Fast-forward to today, and we’re now using Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax), which offers speeds of up to 10 gigabits per second. It can handle more devices, provides better range, and is more battery-friendly than previous versions.
How Wi-Fi Works
Wi-Fi works by transmitting data via radio waves. When you connect your smartphone to a Wi-Fi network, your device sends data to your Wi-Fi router using these waves. The router then sends this data to the internet via a wired Ethernet connection. When the router receives data from the internet, it translates it into a radio signal and sends it to your device.
The Importance of Wi-Fi
Wi-Fi’s importance can’t be overstated. Here are a few reasons why it’s vital:
- Internet Access: Wi-Fi provides internet access to devices without needing a physical connection, enabling internet access for mobile devices like smartphones and tablets.
- Multiple Device Connection: A single Wi-Fi network can support multiple devices, making it ideal for homes and businesses where multiple users need to connect.
- Cost-Effective: With Wi-Fi, you don’t need to invest in cables and wired infrastructure to provide internet connectivity across large areas.
- Smart Home Applications: Wi-Fi is crucial for the functioning of smart home devices like smart lights, smart thermostats, and smart speakers.
Bluetooth
Bluetooth is a wireless technology standard used for exchanging data between devices over short distances. It’s an integral part of modern smartphones, enabling connections with a myriad of devices, from wireless headphones to smartwatches.
In this section, we’ll explore the development of Bluetooth, how it works, and its importance.
The Evolution of Bluetooth
Bluetooth technology was first introduced in 1998 by Ericsson, a Swedish telecommunications company. The first version, Bluetooth 1.0, allowed devices to exchange data at speeds up to 1 megabit per second. However, it had numerous issues, including high power consumption, limited range, and compatibility problems.
Over the years, Bluetooth has evolved considerably. The latest version, Bluetooth 5.2, provides faster speeds (up to 3 megabits per second), longer range (up to 400 meters in ideal conditions), and better power efficiency.
How Bluetooth Works
Bluetooth operates on the 2.4 to 2.485 GHz radio frequency band. When two Bluetooth devices come within range of each other and with Bluetooth enabled, they can establish a connection or “pair”.
One device, the “master,” sends out a pairing request to the other, the “slave.” Once the slave device accepts the request, a connection is established, and data can be exchanged. This process is also known as “pairing.”
The Importance of Bluetooth
Bluetooth has become an integral part of our digital lives, and here’s why:
- Wireless Connectivity: Bluetooth eliminates the need for wires when connecting devices, providing freedom and convenience. This is especially apparent with the rise of wireless headphones and earbuds.
- Device Interoperability: Bluetooth allows different devices, regardless of their operating system or manufacturer, to communicate. This means your Android phone can connect to an Apple keyboard, or your Windows laptop can connect to an iPhone.
- Low Energy Consumption: Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE), introduced in Bluetooth 4.0, allows devices to connect with minimal power usage, making it ideal for battery-powered devices like fitness trackers and smartwatches.
- Personal Area Networks: Bluetooth can create a network of up to seven devices, called a piconet. This means your smartphone can connect to multiple devices at once, such as a smartwatch, wireless headphones, and a car audio system.
Cellular Network
Cellular networks form the backbone of communication for smartphones. They provide connectivity for voice calls and mobile data, especially when Wi-Fi isn’t available. In this section, we’ll discuss the evolution of cellular networks, how they work, and their significance.
The Evolution of Cellular Networks
The journey of cellular networks began with 1G (first generation) in the 1980s, offering analog voice calls. With the arrival of 2G in the 1990s, digital voice calls and text messaging became possible.
3G, launched in the early 2000s, brought faster data transfer rates and made mobile internet a reality. This was followed by 4G (and 4G LTE) in the late 2000s, which provided even faster data speeds, enabling high-quality video streaming and more advanced internet services on smartphones.
Today, we are stepping into the era of 5G, promising even faster data speeds, lower latency, and the ability to connect more devices simultaneously.
How Cellular Networks Work
Cellular networks work by dividing a large geographical area into smaller areas called cells. Each cell has a base station (also known as a cell tower) that sends and receives signals to and from mobile devices within its range.
When you make a call or use mobile data, your smartphone communicates with the nearest cell tower. Your data is then transmitted to a central hub, which connects to the wider telephone network or the internet.
As you move around, your smartphone seamlessly switches between cell towers, ensuring uninterrupted service. This process is known as a handoff.
The Importance of Cellular Networks
Cellular networks play a crucial role in our digital lives. Here’s why:
- Voice Calls and Text Messaging: Even with the advent of internet-based communication apps, traditional voice calls and text messaging remain important. Cellular networks make these services possible.
- Mobile Internet: Cellular networks provide internet access when Wi-Fi isn’t available, ensuring that you can browse the web, stream content, and use online apps on the go.
- Coverage: Cellular networks cover a much larger area compared to Wi-Fi. Whether you’re in a crowded city or a remote countryside, chances are, there’s a cellular network available.
- Emerging Technologies: 5G networks are set to power emerging technologies like Internet of Things (IoT) devices, autonomous vehicles, and more, bringing about the next revolution in connectivity.
Wrapping Up
Armed with this knowledge, you can now better understand the inner workings of your smartphone. Whether you’re buying a new phone or simply curious about the one you have, knowing these basic components and their functions will help you make a more informed decision about which phone is right for you.
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