Category: Smartphone

Introduction

Smart phone is a mobile phone which is based on a mobile computing platform. It has more advanced computing capabilities and networking as compared to a contemporary mobile phone. The first smart phones were developed to join the operations of a mobile phone and a personal digital assistant (PDA).

Currently, Smartphone devices are used to combine operations of portable media players, compact digital cameras, pocket video cameras, and GPS navigation units. Today, Smartphone includes web browsers that can properly navigate web pages rather than websites.

They also include high-resolution touch screens, mobile, broadband, and fast data access through Wi-Fi. Modern smart phones use various software such as Nokia’s Symbian, Microsoft Windows Mobile, and Apple’s ios, Windows phone, Blackberry Operating System; Android and embedded Linux (Yang & Zheng, 2007).

This software is installed on various smart phone models, and each device can get several software updates over the lifetime. The difference between smart phones and other phones is vague, as there is no explanation on the difference between them.

The crucial difference that can be established is the advanced application programming interfaces on smart phones. This enables applications to integrate with the Smartphone’s operating system and its.

Smart phones have been developed in the last decade. Initially, business professionals used smart phones, but today they are accessible to the public. The purpose of this research paper is to compare the advantages and disadvantages of various Smartphone’s software applications.

Smart phone soft ware

Nokia’s Symbian is one of the first Smartphone softwares. The operating system was developed for ordinary gaming, basic media, and text messaging operations, as well as basic e-mail and web surfing operations (Frederick, 2010). The software has several advantages.

For instance, it offers a combination of leading edge mobile technology and various ranges of run times. It has led to development of million Symbian devices that provide an excellent opportunity to deliver profitable applications in the market. It provides all features required to test applications for Symbian devices on a P.C.

In addition, Smartphone helps in developing the VGA screen resolution, which facilitates the development for the Nokia E6 device. The software provides updated browser, which is installed in Nokia phones. The three-plane architecture provides improved data flow performance.

Symbian software supports Korean and Chinese languages. It enables a person to develop applications using Qt, C++, and Web Runtime. Nokia Symbia has various disadvantages (Firtman, 2010). For instance, Symbian 3 uses numerical keypad, which is not proficient in the word of prediction and autocorrelation.

The operating system has unimpressive browser causing users to seek help of third party applications such as opera mobile to get browsing experience. Its online music store, Ovi music, did not receive positive responses. It does not allow the user to purchase all movies, music videos, and TV shows.

The software has few applications as compare to other software such as windows phone (Firtman, 2010). It has few third party applications compared to Android and iPhone. Nokia Symbia application system lacks social integration as it supports face book right now.

Blackberry is another operating system installed in smart phones. This software mostly focuses on providing information through advanced e-mail and web surfing capabilities. The software receives e-mails from anywhere as long as it can locate a network. Blackberry operating system has various advantages (Firtman, 2010).

For example, the development of push emails technology, which is available in most smart phones. It enables the user to receive e-mails in real time as soon as they are reflected in user’s inbox. It helps in compressing data that is transmitted through RIM servers.

This leads to saving massive costs that could be accrued due to severe bandwidth depletion. Blackberry operation system enables the user to access the cheapest Internet services. Blackberry phones have magnificent QWERTY keyboard, which makes typing easy and fluid. Blackberry software has various challenges.

First, it makes blackberry phones to be of a poor call quality in 3G mode. The phone keeps getting supplementary service errors. The operating system makes it difficult for users to download large files (Firtman, 2010). They are able to download files of over 2.9mb to 4.8mb. Blackberry services, like e-mail browsing, require service books to function. If the service books are not advanced the services will not function.

The operation system has slow and average browser. Although data is compressed, loading WebPages on curve 3G takes some time and web components are scattered on the screen.

It takes a long time to reboot black berry phones. In soft reboot, the phone is switched off but all applications are left running prior to shutdown. It is difficult to watch YouTube videos on a blackberry device, as it does not support streaming FLV files (Fling, 2009).

Another Smartphone operating system is the iPhone Ios. Apple Company developed this software in 2007. It is the software installed in apple phones such as iphone, the iPod Touch, and the ipad. When it started it could only support Apple applications. Today it can multitask as the apple company developed a new version in 2010 (Fling, 2009).

The iphone is popular and one of the best parts at third party applications. This software is easy to use and easy to access. The software has other advantages as compared to the other software. It has improved camera performance. It performs an order of high magnitude than the other software. It focuses quickly, take pictures, and gets back to screen quickly.

The camera also has a digital zoom feature, which enables the user to create folders on the screen. This helps in reducing the number of home screens by putting applications in the folders.

It contains a spell check application to aid typing. The spell check allows the user to select the word he means instead of arbitrarily choosing one for the user. It supports a unified inbox, all the emails go to a master inbox instead of a separate inboxes. The software also enables blackberry phones to multi task (Fling, 2009).

The user can now switch between applications as fast as possible. This is a considerable benefit as many applications have the background support.

The operating system also has various weaknesses, which need to be improved. Semi threaded emails enable users to see messages received in a conversation, but not the sent messages. This implies that the user will only be able to see half of the conversation. There is no real improvement on iPod devices.

The current iPod device is identical to what has been available in the last three years (Firtman, 2010). The software cannot allow the user to put additional ringing tones. There is no lock screen improvement. The user has to unlock the device to interact with missed messages, calls, and voice mails.

There is no attachment supporting email. The user is not able to attach something to the messaging once he has started composing it. Android is a Smartphone operating system based on Linux and sponsored by Google.

Today, there are about 90000 Android operating systems applications. This makes the software as one of the most known systems. The operating system is the world best selling Smartphone platform. It has a large market for third party applications (Firtman, 2010). One of its substantial benefits is the ability to multitask.

This makes it the most reliable and sensible device to Smartphone customers. It is one of the best user-friendly softwares in the world. It is also remarkably easy to customize the operating system. It provides an option of removable batteries, which enables the user to insert an extra battery.

It also has an option for expandable memory, which is useful, if the internal memory is small. Most mobile phone companies such as Samsung electronics and Motorola use it to run their smart phones. There are different types of devices such as music players, which run Android Operating System, making it the most popular.

It is easy to install and download applications from Android operating system. The procedures of removing applications are not time consuming as in other phones. New versions of Android are launched every three months this means more applications and improvements. The prices for this devices are not high, so many customers can afford them. This operating system has some challenges.

The ability to customize may create problems in the near future (Firtman, 2010). When the user customizes the phone, he is bound to make a mistake. Android phones have a small screen size this makes other competitors a better option. Launching new versions now and then may make some users unhappy.

This is because not every user is capable of updating his phone. The Apple Company is offering better and a large number of applications than Android market. This makes it extremely costly for Android to compete in the market. Finally, Windows phone 7 is the latest operating system in the market. It was released in October 2010.

It uses a mobile version of Internet explorer. Adobe is included in the operating system with a mobile version of flash. The operating system updates is delivered through Microsoft updates.

This is the latest operating system, and it has various advantages. It has a pure and elegant main screen. It allows easy access, to voice mail and call history. It consists of excellent zune based interface, which enables the user to play music and media (Fling, 2009).

It enables the user to upload photos automatically, to sky drive. The operating system is easy to update by zune software. It enables the user to open multiple tabs and web pages. It also enables the user to link profiles from several locations into a single contact.

Like other software, windows phone 7 has various problems. The battery and signal status are not always visible. There is no multitasking for third party application.

There are extremely limited Bluetooth options. Users cannot be able to customize their devices (Firtman, 2010). There is no unified inbox for emails. The keyboard layouts in this phone discourage strong passwords. Windows phone 7 makes to be difficult for the user to move files around on the main screen.

Conclusion

Smart phone software has been developed in the modern technology. There are several software applications in the market. The applications have more advantages as compared to the feature phones.

Most users prefer the Smartphone software as they are easy to operate and they consist of various applications. They are user friendly and they help users in accessing the internet. They have several challenges but advantages outweigh disadvantages.

Reference List

Firtman, M. (2010). Programming the mobile web. Chicago: O’Reilly Media.

Fling, B. (2009). Mobile design and development. Chicago: O’Reilly Media.

Frederick, G. (2010). Beginning smart phone web development. New York: Apress.

Yang, B., & Zheng, P. (2007). Professional microsoft smartphone programming. Hong Kong: Wrox.

Process Memo

The process required to design the features of a customized Smartphone for children emerged because of the rising demand concerning ownership of a customized device, which meets their preferences. Over the recent past, technology has led to a number of inventions that make life easy. Among the inventions that have made life and communication easy is the Smartphone, which comes in numerous varieties, designs, and types. Formerly, parents and young adults owned and used the Smartphone.

However, the recent development where children request for the gadgets has raised concern from various individuals in the society. With the advancements in technology and creation of Smartphone, the number of children, who are requesting for the gadgets, is on the rise.

The factor that compounds the rising demand is the increasing significance of the gadget in the modern world. As a result, there is need to develop a Smartphone, which meets the growing demand from the parents and children. It is within this context that the study examines the best Smartphone for children using a process memo, systematic instructions, and a progress report.

The rising demand for the Smartphone took place because of the benefits that it has for both the parents and the children. In essence, the gadget facilitates effective communication between the parent and the child. By providing a platform where children and parents communicate in a convenient manner, cases that require urgent attention receive simultaneous responses from the subject individuals, who may include trainers, guardians, or parents.

Moreover, the gadgets are very useful in fostering the level of information that the children have on matters that relate to education. It is vital to explain that effective management and use of the gadget results in increased expertise and skills that improve the knowledge of children concerning certain subjects and concepts, which are educational. As a result, a customized Smartphone is very important in boosting the performance of children in various institutions of learning.

In addressing the rising demand and the benefits that a Smartphone has on human lives, there is need to develop one that serves the interest of children, while minimizing the negative impacts. Poor time management, insufficient sleep, and drug abuse are some of the common challenges associated with ineffective use and management of the phones by children.

To reduce the challenges and enhance its importance, the Smartphone should follow a design that enables the children to use it conveniently in matters that boost their education and performance.

Additionally, the gadget needs to have features that match the demands presented by children. Since the phones are useful for children, its instructions and use must be easy, convenient, and the pricing should be slightly lower than that of others. In essence, the customized Smartphone not only minimizes the negative impacts that arise because of poor management and control, but also reduces the vulnerability of children to cyber crimes.

Some of the major factors to consider when designing the gadget include clarity of instructions, limited access to the internet, and customized features. It is important to note that since the gadget has a design that meets the increasing demand from children, its instructions, accessibility, and features should address the concerns raised by parents, guardians, or trainers. Clarity of instructions is a factor that helps the elders understand the gadget and easily manage its use.

Moreover, it facilitates effective use from children and reduces cases where they become confused due to unclear or complex instructions. To minimize the problems related to cyber crimes and access to illegal or unethical sites, the product follows a design that inhibits access to these suspicious sites.

Conversely, the gadget should access sites that have educational content and features that promote good behavior. The phone has customized features that ease its use and operation from both children and the parents. Evidently, wise use and management of a Smartphone designed for kids has benefits that outweigh its negative impacts.

Systematic Instruction Manual for the Consumers or End-users

The Smartphone has various features that are suitable for young adults and children. These features are limited unlike those found in the common Smartphone used by adults. Some of the features that the gadget has include a camera, a good LCD screen, android operating system, a long lasting battery, a good music player, and a beautiful appearance.

The following are systematic instructions for the consumers or end-users of the Smartphone designed for children

Installing

After purchasing the Smartphone designed for children, the first procedure that a parent or guardian needs to undertake is installation. Installation of the device entails assembling the parts of the gadget together and putting them in their rightful places so that the device becomes complete and useful. It is paramount to highlight that installation requires attention so that the person performing it does not tamper with the parts, and thus, interfere with its functionality.

For instance, installation of the battery requires one to remove the back cover of the phone carefully by sliding it as indicated by the arrow on the cover. Thereafter, the individual has to align the battery with the copper contacts and push it in gently. In addition, when inserting the memory card, the user removes the back cover and ensures that the gold contacts are facing downwards. The person then pushes the card until it clicks into the right position. It is very important for an individual to switch off the phone before installation.

Switching On

The second procedure after proper installation is the process of switching on the Smartphone. To turn on the phone, one has to press the power button, which is usually at the bottom right part of the device. Initially, the phone requires some adjustments on issues such as time, date, and internet connection.

To ease operation and use on aspects of internet connectivity, the device provides a range of procedures that succeed one another and the users have to accept them by pressing the ‘ok’ button that is at the bottom centre. Fundamentally, when pressing the buttons, it is crucial to ensure that the act is gentle so that the buttons are not spoilt.

Use and Operation

After installation and turning on the phone, one has to understand the issues concerning its use and operation. Essentially, use and operation is the third procedure and is very important in ensuring that the life cycle of the device is elongated. When the individuals have a poor understanding on the use of the device, they can tamper with its functionality, and thus, shorten its lifecycle.

The phone has the front, back, top, and bottom panels, which have different parts designed for diverse purposes. At the front panel of the phone, there is the earpiece, call button, power button, and icons that indicate features such as trackball, home, and search. These features are very important in successful use of the Smartphone. The back panel of the phone has the speakers and the camera. At the sides of the phone, there are buttons that the children can use to control the volume that it produces.

The upper part of the phone has a standard USB port that enables the children to transfer files and charge it. Additionally, the lower part of the device has an audio jack that helps the user insert an external earpiece and listen to music or engage in hands free conversations. The call button helps the users access their contacts and make calls. Notably, the power button is very important in terminating calls, switching on, and turning off the device. Moreover, when one presses the back icon, the device returns back to its previous state.

The search button enables one to look for items and contacts quickly and conveniently. Additionally , the home icon displays all the features that the phone has and helps the children locate what they want from the various features availed by the phone. To scroll the contents on the screen, the user can employ the services provided by the trackball feature of the Smartphone.

Storage of Information

Since the Smartphone is a product that meets the demands of children and young adults, collection and storage of information is one of its vital elements. While the phone comes with its own internal memory of 4GB, it still supports an additional memory of up to 10GB. The implication of high internal memory and an additional capacity for external memory through components such as memory cards is increased performance, high speed in internet access, and improved functionality.

As a result, children can use the phone to collect and store important information from the internet and other external sources like computers. The ability to collect information from external sources like computers is possible since the Smartphone has a USB extension that users can plug into the gadgets. It is very fundamental for parents and guardians to ensure that the information collected and stored by their children in their phones is ethical and educational.

Power Management

The customized Smartphone for children has a lithium-ion battery that comes along with it. It is important to assert that proper use and maintenance of the battery leads to a long life and good power storage. When inserting the battery, one needs to align it with the copper contacts. Essentially, children should be discouraged from frequent removal of the batteries because the act increases the chances of tampering with them. Importantly, individuals need to know that the manufacturers do not charge the batteries.

Therefore, the users need to charge the batteries before their first use as it increases their efficiency and power storage. When charging, the phone indicates the percentage of power that it requires to attain a full charge and the bars in the battery icon add up until it attains a full charge. The user must plug the AC adapter into the port found at the upper part of the phone and connect it to a power supply for charging. Remarkably, the users should not remove the device when it is charging and must use adapters specially designed for the phone.

Maintenance of the Smartphone

Maintenance of the Smartphone is among the major procedures that are useful in its effective use and long life. A poorly maintained Smartphone always has a short lifecycle and is ineffective. Maintenance involves cleaning, effective battery and memory card removal and placement, as well as screen management. Since the main consumers of the Smartphone are children, its manufacture follows a design that is waterproof and durable.

The touch screen is hard and cannot break easily thus, minimizing instances of breakages that arise from accidental falls common in children. However, the phones require frequent cleaning, which entails wiping the screen and the body using a moist and clean piece of cloth.

In addition, the battery and the memory card needs careful removal and placement in order to sustain the performance of the device. To elongate the power storage of the phone, trainers, guardians, and parents must encourage their children to turn off the screens when their devices are not in use. The act of turning off the screen not only minimizes use of power, but also helps in its maintenance.

Switching Off the Smartphone

For effective use, successful maintenance, and improved performance of the device, users need to switch them off when they are not in active use. Switching off the device not only helps in storage of power, but also facilitates successful maintenance. Moreover, guardians, parents, and teachers need to exercise the switching off procedure since it helps the children undertake other activities.

The procedure is useful as it helps the elders control the time that the children spent with their phones, and hence, minimizes some of the negative impacts that arise from long hours spent using the device.

Challenges such as inadequate sleep and laziness that are common when there is absence of control in use of phones by children diminish. Parents, guardians, and trainers can set certain periods when the children can access their phones and use them and periods when they must switch them off. Imperatively, switching off is the last procedure that one undertakes on the device.

Progress Report

The process of designing the Smartphone and a manual that helps the end-users or consumers understand its use and operations has been successful. Since the people entrusted with the activity have the relevant expertise in the field, the process is beginning to yield a range of positive results. Presumably, the process is likely to attain its successful completion within the provided timeframe and budget.

The positive outcomes relate to the increasing demand from parents and children to have a Smartphone that meets their preferences in line with use and convenience.

Since the manual is comprehensive, systematic, and detailed, several end-users want to see and read it as they use the customized Smartphone. From the field, it is evident that several common devices have complex instructions that consumers especially young adults and children cannot understand.

In addition, the devices do not have customized features that are in accordance with the requirements of parents and children. Therefore, introduction of a customized Smartphone for children and the design of good and systematic manuals prove to be very essential and give the best results within the provided budget and time.

Process for designing kids’ smartphones

With reference to our last meeting, this memo illustrates the process required to design kids’ smartphones. In the last few decades, technology has led to a number of inventions focusing on making life easier and improving the quality of life. Among the inventions that have made communication easier are smartphones. With the increasing demand for smartphones by kids, we should focus on designing gadgets that are cheap and perform the most basic functions in limited ways.

The process of designing kids’ smartphones will be broken into several phases. The phases are conceptual, fabrication, construction, and software. During the conceptual phase, drawings and wireframes will be designed. The drawings will determine the gadget’s heaviness, scale, bulk, and portability. At this stage, the designers should come up with a prototype to be adopted. The prototype should meet the needs required by the kids.

Some of the major factors to consider when designing the prototype include clarity of instructions, limited access to the internet, and customized features. Clarity of instructions is a factor that helps the parents and children to utilize the gadget. Moreover, clear instructions facilitate the effective use of the device by the children and reduce confusion.

After the conceptual phase, the designers should create electronic parts. The features selected on the theoretical phase will govern the electronics to be used. In our project, a printed circuit board, a smart screen, a source of power, and the software will be required. When coming up with the appropriate software, the programmers should consider the targeted audience. The software should be able to meet the interest of children and minimize any possible negative impacts.

Poor time management and insufficient sleep are some of the common challenges associated with the ineffective use of the device by the kids. To reduce the above challenges, the software should follow a design that enables the children to use them conveniently. Additionally, the software needs to have features that match the demand presented by the children. Since smartphones will be useful for children, its instructions and use must be easy, convenient, and the price should be slightly lower than the usual common smartphones.

The last process will be assembling. In this process, different parts created separately are collected together to come up with a smartphone. After assembling all the parts, the software is loaded into the gadget. To minimize the problems related to the access of illegal or unethical sites, the operating system will follow a design that prevents access to suspicious sites. Conversely, the gadget will be set to access sites that have educational content, games, and features that promote good behavior.

The phone should have customized features that ease its use and operation from both children and parents. Apparently, the wise use and management of a smartphone designed for kids should have benefits that outweigh its negative impacts. Thereafter, the gadget is tested to ensure that it meets the quality regulations.

Instruction manual for the consumers

The smartphone will have various features that are suitable for children and their parents. The features are limited, unlike those found in smartphones used by adults. The following are systematic instructions for use by the consumers.

Setting up your phone

Before using the gadget, it is essential to install all the accessories into their respective internal compartments. It is important to highlight that installation requires attention so that the user does not tamper with the parts and its functionality. For the installation of the battery, the user should remove the back cover of the phone and carefully slide it as indicated by the arrow on the cover. The battery has to be aligned with the copper contacts. To insert the MicroSD card, the user should remove the back cover and ensure that the gold contacts are facing downwards. Thereafter, the card should be pushed until it clicks into the right position.

Switching on

To turn on the phone, the user should press the power button, which is usually at the bottom right part of the device. Thereafter, the user should set the phone’s time, date, and internet connection by going to the settings folder and changing the necessary adjustments.

Use and operation

The phone has the front, back, top, and bottom panels, which have different parts designed for diverse purposes. On the front panel of the phone, there is the earpiece, call button, power button, and icons that indicate features such as trackballs, home, and search. The back panel of the phone has the speakers and the camera. On the sides of the phone, there are buttons that the kids can use in controlling the device’s volume.

1. Camera
2. Proximity sensors
3. Application icons
4. Primary short cuts
5. Menu key
6. Home key
7. Back key
8. Search key
9. Homescreen indicator
10. Google quick search bar
11. Indicator icons
12. External speaker

Storage of information

The phone comes with its own internal memory of 4GB. In addition, the phone comes with an external of 10 GB. The phone has a USB extension for transferring data from external sources like computers.

Power management

After installing the battery for the first time, users should charge the phone before their first use. When charging, the phone indicates the percentage of power on the battery icon. The users should not remove the device when charging is in progress, and they should always use adapters designed for the device.

Maintenance of the smartphone

Maintenance involves battery and SD card removal and replacement. The battery and MicroSD card need to be removed carefully during replacement in order to maintain the performance of the device. The act of turning off the screen does not only minimize the use of power but also helps in maintaining the device.

Switching off the smartphone

Switching off the device not only helps in the storage of power but also facilitates successful maintenance. Moreover, parents need to exercise the switching-off procedure since it helps the kids do other activities. In addition, parents should decide the time their kids should access their phones.

Progress report

After the company noted the need to design a smartphone that meets the kids’ expectations, necessary infrastructure and funds were put in place to realize the ambition. The first smartphone for kids is expected to be in the market by mid this year. As such, this memo focuses on the progress realized so far.

The process of creating the smartphone has been broken into several phases. The phases are conceptual, fabrication, construction, and software. Each phase has been assigned to a number of specialists. So far, engineers and architects are done with working on the phone’s drawings and wireframes. With the completion of the conceptual phase, clients can view the phone’s prototype on our website. Similarly, the expected user manual is available on our website. Similarly, the different parts to be assembled have been completed. Notably, the parts are yet to be shipped to the factory for assembling.

Equally, the programmers are done with working on the appropriate software for the smartphone. Notably, the software meets the interest of children and minimizes any possible negative impacts. To reduce the challenges and improve their importance in the lives of kids, the software developed follows a design that enables the children to use them conveniently.

Poor time management and insufficient sleep are some of the common challenges associated with the ineffective use of the device by the kids. Since smartphones will be useful for children, the instructions developed are easy, convenient, and cheap compared with the usual common smartphones.

The only process remaining for the first phone to reach the market is assembling. The process will be completed in the next month. So far, all the different parts created separately are waiting to be shipped to the factory for assembling. After assembling all the parts, the software will be installed in the gadget. Considered the time left for the completion of the project, it should be noted that the project would be completed within the provided timeframe and budget.

Introduction

The world has experienced pronounced technological advancements in the recent past in the realm of information and communication technology. Some of the notable advancements that have caused a significant influence on human lifestyles in the social and professional arenas are the use of mobile phones such as smartphones. Among the innovations and inventions initiated by technology is the smartphone, which has transformed human lifestyles significantly (Yelton 5). The invention and the introduction of Smartphones into human life have led to positive and negative changes. Conversely, the positive changes initiated by the advent of smartphones outweigh the negative changes, and thus, the smartphone becomes an essential component of human life. Therefore, this essay argues that smartphones have transformed the social and professional lifestyles of individuals.

Source of information

The tremendous changes initiated by smartphones include acting as a source of information. Smartphones are gadgets that connect to the internet, and thus, allow their users to access massive information from the internet, just like computers. In health, smartphones enable healthcare providers to access medical information useful in improving the treatment of patients. According to Lewis and Vohra, smartphones have devices such as Bluetooth, which “allow monitoring of patients remotely using physiological sensors” (296). Moreover, medical devices connect to smartphones via the internet and enable medical providers to monitor patients in real-time through their smartphones.

Although critics argue that smartphones act as avenues to access information that may not be morally right, it is important that people use smartphones appropriately for the correct reasons. According to Darlin, smartphones provide easy access to answers that individuals can use in addressing contemporary issues that relate to their daily activities (par. 19). The information from smartphones helps people improve their thinking and enhance their understanding of various issues that affect their lifestyles. The advent of smartphones has transformed the way people understand all things in that:

Not to sound like a know-it-all, but it is now easy to be a know-it-all. How many times in a conversation, have you been stumped by a question? You used to drop the topic and move on. Now when you hit a wall, you have the answer no matter where you are. The conversation, refreshed, moves to the next point. (Darlin par. 20).

Smartphones have transformed the operations of various facilities like hotels, industries, and hospitals. Information concerning products offered by hotels, marketing, medicine, and other aspects of life is easily accessible since the phones can connect to the internet easily and quickly. The fast and quick connectivity of smartphones to the internet provides a wide spectrum of understanding issues that individuals face in their professional and social lives. Smartphones have transformed the way people perform their professional duties, as Darlin asserts that the “smartphone has changed our internal lives” (par. 6).

Doctors, teachers, marketers, and students can easily increase their level of understanding through the vast amount of information that they can access the internet using their smartphones. Critics argue that the ease in which smartphones connect to the internet creates a platform where people look for answers instead of doing research to broaden their knowledge. However, it is imperative to understand that individuals should manage how they use their smartphones.

Improvement of Technology

Smartphones have also increased the magnitude of technological advancements that occurs in the present world. The vast amount of information available on the internet and the connective ability of Smartphones provide a good environment for technological advancements. The argument that critics present concerning smartphones are that they have led to laziness since people easily get answers to their questions by clicking a single button. Conversely, the argument presented by critics is not justifiable because the information that smartphones provide through their ability to access the internet help advance technology. Kim, Ilon, and Altmann explain that due to the level of the Internet connectivity that smartphones have on the society, almost every student in some countries like North Korea has them in schools (4). Therefore, it is important to appreciate the role that smartphones play in technological advancements.

Smartphones have introduced high levels of innovation and creativity among people in contemporary societies. High levels of innovation and creativity that smartphones present contemporary society facilitate technological advancements and transform all components of life. Presently, several companies and organizations use smartphones to improve the quality of products and services that they offer to their clients. Since smartphones provide information concerning various social and professional aspects of life, organization, companies, and people can employ the information to advance the quality of their products.

Over time, critics have argued that individuals should not rely on technological advancements that smartphones facilitate since they are prone to costly errors and mistakes. However, smartphones provide information that boosts creativity and innovation of a person, and thus, the negative harm that critics pose does not relate to the effectiveness of the phone but concerns the application of information. Since Americans have created a significant intimate relationship with smartphones, “they are still modest compared with people in other ­countries” (Gibbs par. 5). Creativity and innovation that smartphones facilitate lead to enhanced transformations in the social and professional livelihoods of individuals.

Easy Marketing

Currently, several organizations and companies market their products using the internet and social sites such as Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube. The advent of Smartphones has transformed the marketing of products in various organizations. Transformation of marketing takes place because individuals easily access sites like Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and other social sites using their phones. Consumer-friendly rates that smartphones offer to its clients initiate consistent access to the sites. As a result, potential consumers come across the adverts and increase their awareness of the products. Darlin explains that smartphones have introduced consumer-friendly data rates that facilitate easy and quick access to the internet (par. 16). Easy accessibility to the internet and consumer-friendly prices supersedes the argument presented by critics that personal computers are useful in accessing information from various sites on the internet.

The effectiveness of smartphones in product marketing is essential since the majority of target consumers are technology-oriented. According to Gibbs, the fast and effective connectivity of smartphones to the internet and social sites promotes the use of the internet in product marketing (par. 4). The technological orientation of consumers implies that the use of technology is very vital as it creates a feeling that a company or an organization offers products that are in line with consumer expectations. In addition, social sites such as Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube provide avenues where organizations and companies exchange ideas with potential clients concerning products and their perceived qualities.

Through the avenues that the social sites on the internet provide, organizations and companies design products that are in line with customer expectations and increase their sales volumes. Critics explain that the ability of smartphones to access social sites like Facebook increases the risk of individuals to fraudsters and cybercriminals. However, increased education concerning internet usage reduces the harm posed by cybercriminals.

Providing Directions

Smartphones have reduced the stress that individuals experience in new locations, especially when looking for directions. Google maps present on the internet are easily accessible through smartphones, and thus, an individual needs to log into the internet and search the location of a region. The implication of easy and effective provision of direction is a very significant role that smartphones play in the contemporary world. As people travel to new destinations, Hwang and Yu assert that “location awareness and navigation are becoming one of the most important features in mobile phones and smartphones” (1).

Essentially, smartphones and other gadgets introduced by advancements in technology are quickly transforming the world into a global village. The transformation has made communication and interaction with individuals from other parts of the world easy and effective. Education and awareness on the use of the internet reduce the vulnerability of individuals to cybercriminals and hackers, and hence, the argument presented by critics concerning the increased vulnerability of individuals to cybercriminals does not override the benefits that accrue from the use of smartphones.

Smartphones and other gadgets like computers have quickly transformed the world into a global village. Globalization of the world using smartphones takes place through their ability to provide information concerning the location of places in the world. Currently, people do not need to go through the process of asking questions concerning the location of a place or a tourism destination from others since they can check the right location of a destination using their smartphones. Furthermore, the portable nature of smartphones implies that people can check the direction of a place everywhere since they carry their phones with them.

The use of smartphones is consistent with the dynamic and trendy behavior of consumers (Lane and Manner 26). Critics have always argued that smartphones do not provide accurate information concerning directions. The argument is not valid because the information about directions that smartphones provide relies on the information availed by Google maps. Therefore, smartphones help in ascertaining locations basing on the information available from Google Maps on the internet.

Reduces Anxiety

The advent of smartphones has caused numerous changes in the social and professional lifestyles of people. Presently, individuals cannot live without smartphones since they have become part of their life. The ability to have a gadget that helps advance the profession and social character of an individual makes the smartphone an essential part of human life. Smartphones are useful in ascertaining the welfare of relatives or friends. Moreover, people use smartphones to understand the current state of affairs in the world. The ability to know the welfare of the events around the environment or the locality of an individual helps to reduce anxiety. The lack of appropriate information creates anxiety as Darlin asserts that “when I think back to what I was like before the advent of the smartphone, I realize I must have been a quivering ball of anxiety” (par. 1). As a result, individuals cannot underscore the significant use of smartphones in contemporary human lives.

Anxiety is a feeling that transpires when an individual is oblivious about the welfare of relatives or friends. Absence of information concerning the events around a place or a region that the individuals reside leads to a certain level of anxiety and tension. However, smartphones have become very instrumental in minimizing the anxiety of individuals since they provide frequent updates on the affairs and welfare of the locality where people reside. Lane and Manner explain that several users of smartphones are young individuals, who need attachment from parents, caregivers, or spouses, and so, become anxious if they are oblivious about the welfare of their friends or relatives (26).

Critics state that smartphones reduce the attention and productivity of people in workplaces or in schools since they spend several hours inquiring about the welfare of their friends and current affairs. To counter the argument, employers need to exercise good management skills among employees so that they can improve their performance. Likewise, teachers need to monitor students effectively so that they can study and succeed. Thus, smartphones reduce anxiety as it enables people to know what transpires around them.

Advancement of Individual Lifestyles

Smartphones have transformed individual lifestyles since they increase their awareness of current affairs and behaviors that relate to the daily livelihoods of individuals. Social sites such as Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube help individuals understand what happens around the world and how others around them deal with challenges and issues presented by life. As a result, several individuals live according to how others live in societies of the world. It is important to understand that the ability to comprehend the contemporary livelihoods of others in the world is effective using smartphones as it facilitates easy access to the internet and social sites.

Moretti explains that the use of smartphones has greatly changed the lifestyles of families and societies (22). The latest destinations, shops, and fashions available on the internet come to the knowledge of a person because the use of smartphones enables easy access to the internet. Critics state that smartphones facilitate the passage of immoral and information that is not ethical. Conversely, the argument relates to the use of a smartphone and not the gadget itself.

Changes in lifestyles of individuals occur since they use smartphones to check and inquire about the latest lifestyle trends from others around the world. The changes are effective through smartphones, which access social sites such as Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube, and facilitate conversation and interaction among individuals around the world, irrespective of their distance. In addition, smartphones provide information concerning healthy lifestyles and relationship strategies, which improve the social and professional lives of individuals. The fact that smartphones rely on the information from the internet downplays the argument by critics that smartphones erode the lifestyles of individuals because it regards its usage.

According to Yelton, the ability of smartphones to use applications such as android and java increases their speed and effectiveness in accessing the internet and obtaining the latest information from the internet (6). Therefore, it is important to understand that smartphones play an integral role in changing human lifestyles and perceptions.

Conclusion

The advent of smartphones has led to great transformations in the social and professional aspects of human life. Smartphones have changed the way people relate and behave in various societies. Currently, smartphones have become a basic requirement that a majority of individuals cannot live without. Despite various arguments that critics of smartphones present, the benefits associated with the use of smartphones outweigh the demerits.

The benefits associated with smartphones have made gadgets very important in various aspects of human lives. Fundamentally, a smartphone is a tool used in communication and learning, as well as advancing an individual lifestyle. Some of the roles introduced by smartphones include acting as a source of information, improving technology, facilitating easy marketing, and providing directions. In addition, smartphones reduce anxiety and advance individual lifestyles. As a result, the use of smartphones is essential, and people cannot underscore its importance in contemporary societies.

Works Cited

Darlin, Damon. How I Learned to Stop Worrying by Loving the Smartphone. 2011. Web.

Gibbs, Nancy. Your Life Is Fully Mobile. 2012. Web.

Hwang, Soyoung and Donghui Yu. “GPS Localization Improvement of Smartphones Using Built-in Sensors.” International Journal of Smart Home 6.3 (2012): 1-8. Print.

Kim, Juseuk, Lynn Ilon, and Jorn Altmann. “Adapting Smartphones as Learning Technology in a Korean University.” Journal of Integrated Design and Process Science 17.1 (2013): 5-16. Print.

Lane, Wilburn and Chris Manner. “The Impact of Personality Traits on Smartphone Ownership and Use.” International Journal of Business and Social Science 2.17 (2012): 22-28. Print.

Lewis, Thomas and Ravinder Vohra. “Smartphone Make Smarter Surgeons.” British Journal of Surgery 101. 4 (2014): 296-297. Print.

Moretti, Marco. “The Globalization Mobile Wireless Communication: Bridging the Digital Divide.” Globalization of Mobile and Wireless Communications: Today and in 2020. Eds. Ramjee Prasad, Sudhir Dixit, Richard Nee, and Tero Ojanpera. New York: Springer, 2010. 19-30. Print.

Yelton, Andromeda. “Who Are Smartphone Users?” Bridging the Digital Divide with Mobile Services. Ed. Andromeda Yelton. New York: American Library Association, 2012. 5-8. Print.

In the present day, smartphones have become a staple of our lives. Every person with an even moderate income own one and uses it for multiple purposes, including both work and leisure. For the younger generation, a constant use of a smartphone has become its defining trait. The claims that, in the future, smartphones will become the most important electronic devices are outdated by now: they already are.

The popularity of smartphones can be explained by two of its most important qualities, such as supporting multiple functions and ease of use. In the past, people used to have multiple devices for different functions. For example, they had TV sets for watching movies at home, radios for listening to broadcasts, tape recorders for listening to music, fixed telephones for talking to people far away, and cameras for making photos. Now, smartphones combine all of those functions, with the sole lacking function being computers’ creating data for work. While smartphones include gaming, which was previously only available on PCs and consoles, they lack a comfortable way of creating content for work. Instead, laptops and graphics tablets provide users with just enough visual space for proper work. Still, smartphones include every other function older devices used to have individually, and may develop in the future to compete with laptops and tablets as well.

As mentioned above, smartphones have already become a staple in human lives. Even in developing countries, they have become common and a driver for reducing civilization gap between different countries (Glushkova et al., 2019). This is not only limited to simple usage, however. Young people who are constantly looking at their phones in public are a common sight nowadays. Phones have become the most important attribute of social status, especially is schools. People carry them around all the time, with those unable to receive calls by leaving their phones somewhere causing irritation. Thus, smartphones are constantly with their owners, and have become a social phenomenon.

Thus, smartphones will not just become the main electronic devices in the future, as they already are. Having replaced older devices by absorbing their functions, they have become the only devices which their owners carry around all the time. They are used for the majority of leisure activities, and a small yet crucial device for successful work. A future development which would fuse smartphones and laptops, making them one device, could make this status absolute

Reference

Glushkova, S., Belotserkovich, D., Morgunova, N., & Yuzhakova, Y. (2019). The role of smartphones and the internet in developing countries. Revista ESPACIOS.

It is important to note that the communication department’s operational efficiency and effectiveness heavily rely on its ability to communicate virtually from anywhere. The latter implies the need for each employee to have a smartphone device in order to conduct high-quality online meetings, conferences, and video presentations. The burden of technical difficulties needs to be minimal, which is why the selection of a correct smartphone is critical. The given research report will provide information on the front camera, display, and price since these factors are the most relevant for the activities needed for the department.

The phones selected include iPhone 14 Pro Max, iPhone 14, and Samsung Galaxy s22. For the front camera specifications, both iPhone 14 Pro Max and iPhone 14 have no significant differences. Both phone models have 12MP resolutions with TrueDepth camera types (Apple, 2022). In other words, functionally and technically, they are essentially the same. The front camera for the Samsung Galaxy s22 is only 10MP (GSMArena, 2022). The price for both the Samsung Galaxy s22 and iPhone 14 is $799, but iPhone 14 Pro Max costs $1099 (Apple, 2022; GSMArena, 2022). In the case of display, iPhone 14 Pro Max has 6.7 inches long enhanced screen, whereas iPhone 14 and the Android device have only 6.1 inches (Apple, 2022; GSMArena, 2022). Table 1 below showcases these comparisons of the front camera, display, and price in a more organized manner. Thus, iPhone 14 and Samsung Galaxy s22 are the same in all regards, and the choice is a matter of preference, but iPhone 14 Pro Max has a better front camera, wider screen, and higher price.

Table 1

References

Apple. (2022). Compare iPhone models. Web.

GSMArena. (2022). Samsung Galaxy S22 5G. Web.

Abstract

The smartphone has become pervasive in everyday life. Today, it is no more a matter of what these technologies are capable of but instead of the connected ramifications of using them. In recent years, studies have concentrated on smartphone-related effects on cognitive functioning. The present publication intends to offer an overview of past findings and emphasize existing gaps in the smartphone-related effects on attention, inhibition, and working memo. It also addresses the links between attention, working memory, and inhibition, which have been widely investigated. The model below recommends quantifying smartphone usage based on multiple quantitative aspects, such as usage time, usage frequency, used applications, and received notifications (Liebherr, 2020). However, until the potential backsides are clarified, and despite a growing literature on harmful effects, it should be recorded that general smartphone use may significantly accompany favorable benefits on specific processes of attention, inhibition, and working memory.

Introduction

The current experimental psychology study demonstrates that utilizing a smartphone device helps with the retention and memory of critical information. As a result, individual memory is freed up to recall other, less significant things. Neuroscientists have previously expressed concern that excessive technology usage might contribute to cognitive deterioration and “digital dementia” (Liebherr, 2020). However, the current study shows that using a smartphone as an external memory aids individuals in recalling knowledge recorded in the device and unsaved information.

Benefits of Smartphones

Improvement In The Memory

Smartphones improve a person’s memory skills instead of making them lazy or forgetful. Using smartphone video games leads to improvements in cognitive abilities, such as improvements in the memory capacity of human beings. The effects of smartphone usage on working memory are based solely on rare literature which states somehow adverse effects. Findings on inhibition show that low inhibitory control leads to increased responses to messages. While behavioral findings identified no effects of smartphone usage on inhibitory control, neurophysiological studies report differences between excessive smartphone users and regular users (Liebherr, 2020). However, there are no previous findings regarding the long-term effects of smartphone usage on inhibitory control. The findings have led to a greater understanding of smartphones’ influence on young people of school age, which lays the framework for minimizing the harmful effects of smartphone usage in children and adolescents. The usage of digital gadgets may assist users rather than make them sluggish.

Smartphone Self-Efficacy

According to Li (2021), in the growing literature, school-age children with higher smartphone self-efficacy reported more positive effects of smartphone usage, which should be considered in future digital literacy education. Self-control is needed to cope with complex smartphone technologies. Thus, based on existing research on ICT self-efficacy, this study proposes a new variable of “smartphone self-efficacy” and identifies its association with smartphone dependence for the first time (Li et al., 2021). School children with higher smartphone self-efficacy were found to make better use of smartphones in general. Smartphones provide users instantaneous entry to a vast and constantly expanding trove of human knowledge.

Equally, smartphones, as opposed to home phones, enable people to connect from anywhere globally. People worldwide may communicate with one another and exchange photos using social media applications on their cell phones. Consequently, they make it easier for people to communicate with their relatives and friends no matter where they are on the globe. People with this access can look for, find, and learn about anything they want (Liebherr, 2020). Before the Internet, the closest thing to this kind of resource was a multi-volume encyclopedia, which was too expensive and bulky to be used by the masses. Google, Bing, Yahoo, and every other search engine out there provide instant and free access to an infinite trove of knowledge to anyone with an internet connection and a device. In addition, thanks to advances in smartphone technology, people can now access this data whenever and wherever they like, in a matter of seconds.

Side-effects of Smartphones

Smartphone and Attentiveness

The attention problem caused by cell phones is increasing, especially among young adults. Much work has been put into adding to the literature by suggesting that cognitive emotion preoccupation is the fundamental mechanism through which mobile phone distraction leads to a decline in psychological well-being. According to Li (2021), the distraction-conflict theory lends credence to the suggested paradigm by showing that users with superior attention management are more resilient to the unfavorable effects of mobile phone distraction. This study used statistical methods to examine data from 914 Chinese college students. According to the findings, a positive correlation exists between mobile phone use and cognitive-emotional preoccupation, negatively impacting users’ mental health. Our research also shows that the relationship between mobile phone distraction and psychological health is tempered by the ability to pay attention to what is happening around users. As well as discussing the results and their potential applications, the authors acknowledge the study’s shortcomings and suggest directions for future studies.

Generally, mobile phones come pre-loaded with various entertainment options ready to be downloaded. Whether it is movies, TV series, or music, all of this is available with a few smartphone taps (Liebherr, 2020). Today, individuals cause accidents due to the instant Netflix or YouTube videos on their smartphones. Smartphones may be utilized to play the most recently downloaded games from any place, but this merit is often overlooked even when mobile phones, like driving or walking, should not be used. Furthermore, certain cell phones can connect to gaming consoles and be a joystick to play games.

Elimination of Parts of Brain Function

The more we rely on machines, the less we need to use certain portions of our brains. Electronic gadgets cause health problems, such as adjustment disorder, acute stress reactions, social anxiety, and even agoraphobia (the fear of open areas). The likelihood of becoming dependent on mobile devices like cell phones grew. According to Liebherr’s (2021) survey, 71% of respondents from the Middle East reported increased usage, and 95% said they planned to maintain the same level of engagement once the pandemic passed. One could argue that by transferring data from our phones to external storage, we are “creating space” in our 2.5-petabyte brains for more important information. According to Li (2021), the research has demonstrated that one of the mental effects of having information at one’s fingertips is a greater propensity to remember where that information was located rather than what it is. Scientists have dubbed this phenomenon “cognitive miserliness,” whereby people forego analytical thought in favor of their smartphones. Some argue that this leads to impaired learning, memory loss, and attention deficits.

The most commonly reported parameters within the current model are usage duration, usage frequency, programs used, and the number of notifications received. Notably, these factors and their interaction term best predict user behavior. The connection between attentional processes and working memory and inhibition will be touched on briefly, but not extensively, in this review. Instead, the emphasis is placed on the prior literature, which has established a link between selective attention and working memory.

Smartphones and Switching Attention

Adverse effects on several brain functioning may result from excessive internet use. Liebherr (2020) said the endless stream of cues and messages from the Internet might reduce people’s ability to focus on a single job. Using split attention for multitasking has always struck many as foolish. “The attempts at multitasking have led me to believe it is doable so long as you are willing to perform each task poorly” (Liebherr, 2020). The daily average of 49.05 screens shows the potential for disruption for the average smartphone (Liebherr, 2020). Dual-task theories can explain interferences since smartphone interactions are typically linked with the execution of another activity, such as texting while standing on the train or posting comments while sitting in a pub with friends. Traditional working memory accounts characterize it as an essential part of higher cognitive capabilities, able to actively control and regulate cognitive processes to temporarily retain information while paying attention elsewhere.

Conclusion

In conclusion, it has been argued that it is essential to understand how smartphone technology affects us to take the steps necessary to reduce the potentially harmful implications. However, there needs to be more research on how smartphone use affects attention, inhibition, and working memory. Even more so, numerous concerns still need to be answered concerning smartphone use’s impact on various types of attention. However, until these are established, it is essential to remember that regular smartphone use may have some positive benefits on specific attentional processes. In recent years, Smartphones have been incredibly popular, with the majority of people possessing one worldwide. Phones have drastically transformed the way people live today. Typically, smartphones have evolved into a vital asset in their everyday lives, making it simpler for them to perform their jobs. Notably, smartphones have become quite useful in people’s lives for research, entertainment, communication, or social media relevance, and no one can envisage life without them.

References

Liebherr, M., Schubert, P., Antons, S., Montag, C., & Brand, M. (2020). Smartphones and attention, curse or blessing? – a review of the effects of smartphone usage on attention, inhibition, and working memory. Computers in Human Behavior Reports, 1, 100005. Web.

Li, X., Fu, S., Fu, Q., & Zhong, B. (2021). Youths’ habitual use of smartphones alters sleep quality and memory: Insights from a national sample of Chinese students. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 18(5), 2254. Web.

Introduction

In the article “Has the Smartphone Destroyed a Generation” by Jean M. Twenge, the author argues that the widespread use of smartphones among teenagers and young adults has led to a decline in their mental and emotional well-being. Twenge cites a variety of studies and statistics to support her claim, including a decrease in in-person social interactions, an increase in depression and suicide rates, and a decline in attention span. Jean M. Twenge’s argument that the widespread use of smartphones among teenagers and young adults has led to a decline in their mental and emotional well-being is valid, as various studies and statistics support it.

Face-to-face Communication

The author uses the decline in face-to-face social connections among teenagers and young adults as evidence for her conclusion. Twenge observes that “face-to-face engagement is in decline” and cites research showing that teenagers who use their smartphones more frequently are less fulfilled (Twenge). This statement has a basis since, in modern reality, most communication takes place virtually. However, despite the changed nature of communication, it still occupies an important place in people’s lives. Consequently, reduced life satisfaction may be associated with entirely different factors. Face-to-face interactions allow individuals to build trust, establish emotional connections, and engage in social activities. They provide cues such as body language, facial expressions, and tone of voice, which are essential for understanding the meaning behind what is being said. These cues can help avoid misunderstandings and build a deeper understanding of the other person. This ability is essential for building empathy, which is crucial for successful relationships.

Despair and Suicide

The author also uses the rising incidence of despair and suicide among teenagers and young adults to strengthen her case. Teenagers who spend more than three hours a day on their smartphones are 35% more likely to have a risk factor for suicide, according to research cited by Twenge, who also observes that “the percentage of teens who felt useless and joyless” has tripled since 2011 (Twenge). This is a significant point, as mental health is a critical issue for young people. Furthermore, smartphone use may disrupt sleep, which is critical for good mental health. Smartphone use can also lead to social isolation and decreased face-to-face social interactions, which are essential for healthy emotional development.

Attention Span

Twenge provides evidence in this section to support his claim that teenagers and young adults who use smartphones have shorter attention spans. This is a significant aspect because learning and productivity depend heavily on attention span. Twenge’s claim that smartphone use may harm young people’s cognitive development by shortening their attention span is supported by the study she cites (Twenge). The constant notifications, updates, and messages that smartphones bring can make it difficult for users to focus on one task for an extended period. Moreover, smartphones can also interfere with the ability to filter out irrelevant information, an essential cognitive skill critical for learning and productivity. Thus, the constant distractions that smartphones provide can prevent the cognitive development of teenagers and young adults by reducing their attention span and the ability to filter out irrelevant information.

Smartphones as a Constant Presence

Twenge provides evidence in this section that smartphone use affects younger generations, specifically iGen. This is a crucial fact because it raises the possibility that younger smartphone users may experience the harmful consequences of smartphone use more severely. Research has suggested that the longer someone uses a smartphone, the more likely they will experience adverse effects. For example, one study found that the adverse effects of smartphone use on mental health were most pronounced among iGen, who were born between 1995 and 2012 and have grown up with smartphones (Twenge). Because they are the first generation to have grown up with smartphones as a constant presence in their life, the negative impacts of smartphone use may be particularly obvious among the youngest generation of smartphone users. Moreover, iGen has never lived in a world without cellphones, unlike earlier generations, technology has significantly impacted and changed their daily lives. They have become accustomed to and integrated smartphones into their daily lives and routines.

Conclusion

In “Has the Smartphone Destroyed a Generation,” Jean M. Twenge makes a strong case that teenagers and young adults’ mental and emotional health have suffered due to the widespread usage of phones. Twenge cites research and statistics to show that smartphone use reduces face-to-face social contact, raises the risk of depression and suicide, shortens attention spans, and has the most damaging consequences on the younger generation. Strong and reliable evidence is provided in the article to back up Twenge’s claim that smartphones have a detrimental effect on young people’s mental and physical health. Mental health is a critical issue for young people because it plays a significant role in their overall well-being and development. Adolescence and young adulthood are critical periods for the development of mental health, and any factors that negatively impact mental health during these years can have long-term consequences.

Work Cited

Twenge, Jean. “Have Smartphones Destroyed a Generation?” The Atlantic, Web.

The documentary is about the privacy risks posed by the many apps that people are using on their smartphones. According to the video, an average person has about 18 apps on their phone, including social media, fitness, games, and shopping. However, there is a price to pay for the fun and convenience introduced by these technological platforms. The researchers in the documentary created a simple horoscope application to establish how much data people give away when installing the apps on their android phones.

Those who downloaded their application gave it access to their location, phone camera, and microphone. These are some of the permissions that people who download apps give, which puts their data and privacy at risk. Some apps cannot operate on a smartphone without these permissions, an indicator of the extent to which their designers can go to access private information.

Lessons

I learned several important things from this documentary. First, the apps that people use on their smartphones are not free. One may not be charged a fee to use them, but personal data is the currency individuals use to purchase the applications’ services. Notably, most of the apps that charge people to use rarely collect personal data. Therefore, people should be wary of the applications marketed as free but require permission to access location, camera, photos, and other phone settings because one pays for the services they provide through personal data. Secondly, the documentary shows how valuable data is in the modern era of the big data economy.

The extent to which app designers go to collect data illustrates that it is a lucrative commodity. According to the documentary, many application designers sell data to third parties, so they can afford to provide free services to the downloader. However, the services are not free because they come at the expense of one’s privacy. Besides, the documentary makes it clear that cybercriminals can use applications. Some designers can use apps to extract vital private information from their targets and use it to perpetrate cybercrime activities such as extortion, impersonation, and financial fraud. Therefore, apps’ use presents very many risks, and people should be very careful when downloading them or giving them permission after downloading.

Questions and Thoughts

From the perspective of a privacy professional, I have several thoughts about the documentary’s revelations. First, I believe that privacy is a protected right and its violation by the application designers needs to be checked. The application industry needs to be regulated strictly to ensure that the privacy of users is protected. Laws should be developed to limit the extent to which the applications can collect data. If a person is not ready to give access to the information the application wants, they should be charged to use the service, and those who pay should not provide access to their data. Secondly, people should be taught about the importance of privacy and the risks that the use of app poses to make informed decisions before downloading apps or granting permissions to the ones they have downloaded. I would like to ask whether there is an international law that regulates the big data industry.

Variations in national laws may create loopholes, and technology-related privacy issues need to be regulated at the level of the international law to create a uniform framework that applies worldwide.

Nowadays, phones have outgrown their status as simply technological tools as society entered a new era of electronic communication. Young people use their smartphones to socialize, which is why the majority of interactions between adolescents occur online. Washington Post reports that teenagers’ tech habits are a source of concern for parents. Since 2015, the amount of time kids spend watching videos on the Internet has doubled (Siegel). Young people manage to integrate their mobile devices into every part of their life, which explains why so many teenagers use smartphones to organize and maintain their social networks. Despite the phones’ helpfulness, they can lead various negative effects in terms of young people’s peer relationships. These often include social exclusion and cyber bullying, as well as changed family dynamics. It is crucial to acknowledge the threats of cellphone use related to socializing and maintaining relationships at a young age. Despite that, there is no denial that smartphones can be a vital instrument of easy and convenient communication with family and friends, which is why this paper aims to develop a reasonable compromise.

Firstly, phones are an excellent opportunity for adolescents to micro-coordinate their relationships and generate extensive networks with peers. By allowing kids to maintain contact with their peers without worrying about physical proximity or social immobility, smartphones have revolutionized the culture of social interaction (Campbell). Phones enable young adults to form meaningful relationships with peers, and, therefore, bring a sense of belonging into a kid’s life. However, smartphones also provide children with an opportunity to hide behind a screen, voluntarily ostracize, and become a participant in cyber bullying as a result (Rather and Ratner). Young people’s collective tendency to avoid awkward interactions by texting leads to them failing to develop a full capacity to interact with each other.

Without much experience of socializing, adolescents have trouble with not falling victim to peer exclusion. The popularization of texting transformed the nature of communication by making it brief and lacking in social niceties (Campbell). Social media networks have also contributed to the rise of cyber bullying, which implies harassment via messages, video chats, and other tools of online communication. Bullying inadvertently leads to depression, anxiety, and suicidal thoughts, according to recent studies (Campbell). Phones have enabled young people to message something nasty without any real-life repercussions for their words or actions.

Apart from peers, family is one of the most important social institutions that young people rely on as they are growing up. Although people’s attitudes towards phones have been reported to be largely positive, it remains apparent that children experience numerous negative effects of smartphone use in terms of their family life (Gupta and Kumar). Parents often cite safety as the reason for purchasing their kid a phone. However, the issue of security and protection is a part of the double-edged sword since phones often become a source of children’s alienation and ostracism (Silver). On the one hand, a cellphone enables young people to call their parents when they are in trouble and need help. On the other hand, excessive use of smartphones, which is common among teenagers, serves as a threat to existing family dynamics as kids become more inclined to spend their time online instead of socializing with their parents and siblings.

In conclusion, it is evident that young people can benefit greatly from using cellphones as a tool to build and maintain relationships with peers. Additionally, they can use their devices to get immediate help or urgently call their family. However, it is important for parents to monitor their children’s online activities, preferably without intruding their privacy too much. Adults have to encourage young people to socialize in real life and engage in offline communication.

Works Cited

Campbell, Marilyn. “The Impact of the Mobile Phone on Young People’s Social Life.” Social Change in the 21st Century Conference, 2005. Web.

Gupta, Sunil, and Navin Kumar. “Impact of Mobile Phone on Youth: A Psycho-Social Study.”International Journal for Research in Education, vol. 5, no. 4, pp. 50-56, 2016. Web.

Rather, Mudasir, and Shabir Ratner. “Impact of Smartphones on Young Generation.”Library Philosophy and Practice, no. 2384, 2019, Web.

Siegel, Rachel. “Tweens, Teens and Screens: The Average Time Kids Spend Watching Online Videos Has Doubled in 4 Years.” Washington Post. 2019, Web.

Silver, Laura, et al. “Majorities Say Mobile Phones Are Good for Society, Even Amid Concerns about Their Impact on Children.”Pew Research Center, 2019, Web.