eMacromall.com - The Informative Mall

Google Voice is a free telephony service that provides users with a single dedicated phone number for calling, texting, and voicemail across multiple devices—including smartphones, tablets, and computers—through an internet-based system (VoIP). It allows incoming calls to ring on any linked device, and includes features like voicemail transcription, which converts voice messages into text and delivers them via email or in-app display for easy review and searchability. Users can access Google Voice from a web browser or mobile app, enabling cross-platform communication, and benefit from integrated tools like spam filtering, call screening, and free domestic calls within the U.S. and Canada, with low rates for international calls. It’s especially useful for those seeking a second number for privacy, business, or managing personal and professional communications separately.
Apple and Samsung are the titans of the smartphone world, but they cater to very different tribes. If you're drawn to sleek design, buttery-smooth performance, and a tightly woven ecosystem that syncs effortlessly with your Mac, iPad, and Apple Watch, the iPhone 16 Pro Max is your digital soulmate. It’s built like a tank, shoots cinematic video, and now flexes Apple Intelligence to make Siri smarter than ever. But if you crave cutting-edge innovation, jaw-dropping camera specs, and the thrill of customizing every pixel of your experience, Samsung’s Galaxy S24 Ultra or the futuristic Z Fold 7 might be your playground. Samsung dazzles with foldable screens, 200MP cameras, and AI-powered multitasking, all wrapped in a more flexible Android world. Apple is the minimalist perfectionist; Samsung is the bold experimenter.
Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra and Apple iPhone 16 Pro Max are the most advanced cell phones in the world. There are also ultra-secure phones like the Solarin, which offers military-grade encryption and chip-to-chip 256-bit AES security, making it ideal for privacy-conscious users.

Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra: This flagship device features a 6.9-inch Dynamic LTPO AMOLED 2X display with 2600 nits peak brightness, Snapdragon 8 Elite processor, and a 200 MP main camera capable of 8K video recording; it also supports Ultra-Wideband (UWB) connectivity and fast charging at 45W. Its intelligent AI assistant streamlines tasks, making daily life effortless; the AI-enhanced camera ensures stunning low-light videos and crystal-clear portraits; and the Snapdragon 8 Elite processor delivers lightning-fast performance.
Apple iPhone 16 Pro Max: This phone boasts a premium titanium design, IP68 water resistance up to 6 meters, and a staggered camera setup for improved photography; it maintains Apple's signature high-performance chipset and long-term software support. Its Apple Intelligence system enhances productivity, helping you write, express yourself, and get things done effortlessly; the 48MP Fusion camera and 5x telephoto lens ensure stunning low-light videos and crystal-clear portraits; and the A18 Pro chip delivers lightning-fast performance with improved thermal efficiency.

The iPhone 16 Pro Max brings several upgrades over the iPhone 15 Pro Max, making it a compelling choice for those looking for the latest tech.

Display: The iPhone 16 Pro Max features a larger 6.9-inch OLED display, compared to the 6.7-inch screen on the iPhone 15 Pro Max.
Camera: The new Camera Control button on the iPhone 16 Pro Max allows for easier access to photography tools, while the 48MP Fusion camera improves low-light performance.
Performance: The iPhone 16 Pro Max is powered by the A18 Pro chip, offering better efficiency and speed compared to the A17 Pro chip in the iPhone 15 Pro Max.
Battery Life: Apple has improved battery efficiency, meaning the iPhone 16 Pro Max lasts longer on a single charge.
Design: While both models feature a titanium frame, the iPhone 16 Pro Max introduces a refined button layout for better usability.

The iPhone and Samsung smartphones offer distinctly different user experiences, shaped by their operating systems, design philosophies, and ecosystems. In short, iPhone is like a luxury sedan—smooth, reliable, and polished. Samsung is more like a high-tech SUV—versatile, powerful, and customizable.

Simplicity vs. Customization - iPhone users often praise iOS for its clean, intuitive interface and consistent performance. It’s designed to be straightforward—ideal for those who prefer a “set it and forget it” experience. Samsung’s One UI, on the other hand, is a playground for customization. Users can tweak everything from icons to multitasking layouts, which appeals to power users but may overwhelm newcomers.
App Experience - Apple’s App Store is known for strict quality control, offering a more uniform experience across devices. Samsung’s Android-based platform supports a wider range of apps and features, but performance can vary depending on the device model.
Ecosystem Integration - iPhone users benefit from seamless integration with other Apple products—MacBooks, iPads, AirPods, and Apple Watch—creating a cohesive digital environment. Samsung offers its own ecosystem with Galaxy Buds, tablets, and smartwatches, but it’s more fragmented and less tightly woven than Apple’s.
Hardware Variety - Samsung offers a broader range of devices—from budget-friendly Galaxy A models to futuristic foldables like the Z Fold series. Apple sticks to a smaller lineup with premium pricing, focusing on refinement over variety.
User Loyalty & Switching - Some long-time Samsung users switch to iPhone for better software updates and ecosystem reliability, while others move to Samsung for more control and innovation.

In the 2025 mobile carrier showdown, T-Mobile, Verizon, and AT&T each bring distinct strengths to the table. T-Mobile leads in 5G speed and value, offering the fastest mid-band performance and budget-friendly plans with taxes and fees included. Verizon remains the coverage king, especially in rural areas, and delivers blazing-fast mmWave 5G in urban zones—though it’s often the priciest, with added perks like priority data and high-quality streaming. AT&T strikes a balance with solid nationwide coverage, generous hotspot data, and strong international roaming options. For prepaid users, T-Mobile and AT&T offer more affordable choices, while Verizon’s prepaid plans mirror its premium pricing. Ultimately, your best pick depends on whether you prioritize speed, coverage, perks, or price.
Verizon has faced significant backlash and legal scrutiny, including a major class action lawsuit over deceptive billing practices. The company was accused of charging undisclosed administrative fees—ranging from $0.40 to $3.30 per line per month—while misleading customers into thinking these were government-mandated charges. This led to a $100 million settlement, with compensation available to postpaid wireless customers who paid these fees between 2016 and 2023. While Verizon still offers strong rural coverage and premium features, many users feel the value no longer matches the cost—especially with T-Mobile and AT&T offering faster speeds and more transparent pricing. Beyond legal issues, many customers have voiced frustration over:

Poor customer service, including long hold times and unresolved billing disputes.
Inconsistent connectivity, especially in areas where Verizon’s 5G rollout lags behind competitors.
Rising prices and hidden fees, which have driven nearly 300,000 customers to leave in early 2025 alone.

Verizon’s billing structure is packed with extra charges that can quickly inflate your monthly costs. When you add a new device, expect a one-time activation or upgrade fee of $35 per line. Then there’s the first monthly payment, followed by charges for the next billing cycle, plus a device surcharge just for being added to the account. Optional services like Verizon Cloud or Apple Music come with their own fees, and if you’re late on a payment, you could be hit with a $5 to $10 late fee, depending on your balance and location. Even paying early can cost you—$10 if you prepay, and $2.99 if you pay at a CVS or 7-Eleven store. Add in taxes, surcharges, and administrative fees, and your bill could swell by 25% to 65% more than your base plan. It’s a complex system, but knowing where the charges come from can help you avoid surprises—and maybe even negotiate a few away.
As of August 2025, Verizon is currently involved in a class action lawsuit over allegations of unfair billing practices. The lawsuit claims that Verizon charged undisclosed administrative fees—ranging from $0.40 to $3.30 per month per line—in a deceptive manner, leading customers to believe these were government-mandated charges. Filed in New Jersey, the case resulted in a $100 million settlement, with eligible customers able to receive compensation based on how long they were charged these fees. The settlement covers postpaid wireless customers in the U.S. who paid these fees between January 1, 2016, and November 8, 2023. While Verizon denies wrongdoing, it has agreed to improve transparency around these charges going forward. If you were a Verizon customer during that period, you may have been eligible to file a claim—though the deadline to do so was April 15, 2024.
While T-Mobile is praised for affordability and strong 5G coverage, many users have voiced frustrations over several recurring issues. Despite these drawbacks, many stick with T-Mobile for its perks—like free streaming services and international data—and its competitive pricing.

Poor Customer Service - Many customers report long hold times, unhelpful support reps, and frequent transfers between departments. One user described it as “the worst customer service of any company I’ve dealt with”.
Network Congestion - Even with full bars of LTE, users experience slow data speeds or failed connections—especially in densely populated areas.
Indoor Coverage Issues - T-Mobile’s signal often struggles to penetrate buildings compared to AT&T and Verizon. Promised fixes like Band 12 and Band 71 haven’t consistently resolved this.
Price Increases - Despite being known for budget-friendly plans, some customers have faced unexpected price hikes, leading to frustration and threats to switch carriers.
Inconsistent 5G Performance - While T-Mobile leads in 5G availability, users report that the service can be unreliable or inconsistent depending on location.

T-Mobile is under fire in a class action lawsuit filed by 23 plaintiffs who claim the company has been misrepresenting its “Regulatory Programs and Telco Recovery (RPTR) Fee” as a government-mandated charge for nearly two decades. This $3.49 monthly fee per line, which appears in the “Government Taxes and Fees” section of customer bills, is alleged to be a non-governmental surcharge created solely to boost T-Mobile’s revenue. The lawsuit argues that the fee is neither required by regulation nor tied to specific operational costs, and that T-Mobile’s Subscriber Agreement fails to clearly disclose the fee’s amount, frequency, or per-line application. Although T-Mobile’s website now states the RPTR fee is not a government tax, plaintiffs claim the company’s billing practices have misled customers and allowed it to quietly raise prices without public notice. The suit seeks damages and class certification, and follows failed arbitration attempts where T-Mobile allegedly refused to participate. This case echoes similar controversies faced by other carriers, including Verizon, which previously settled a comparable dispute for $100 million.
AT&T has drawn criticism from customers for a variety of reasons, many of which mirror frustrations with other major telecom providers. Common complaints include various issues. These issues have led some users to switch to competitors like T-Mobile or Verizon, seeking better value, faster speeds, and more transparent billing.

High Prices: AT&T is often seen as one of the most expensive carriers, charging more than competitors for similar plans and services.
Unreliable Network: Users report frequent dropped calls, poor data speeds, and spotty coverage—especially in areas where other carriers perform better.
Poor Customer Service: Long wait times, unhelpful support reps, and slow issue resolution have earned AT&T a reputation for subpar service.
Hidden Fees and Promotions: Customers have expressed frustration over misleading promotions and unexpected charges, such as price hikes after introductory offers.
Lack of Innovation: Millennials and younger users often view AT&T as an “old-school” company with limited growth potential and outdated branding.

As of August 2025, AT&T is currently facing a major class action lawsuit stemming from two massive data breaches that occurred in 2024. These breaches exposed sensitive personal information—including names, addresses, Social Security numbers, and call records—of over 182 million current and former customers. The lawsuit accuses AT&T of failing to implement adequate cybersecurity measures to protect customer data. To resolve the claims, AT&T has agreed to a $177 million settlement, split into two funds: $149 million for the first breach and $28 million for the second. Eligible customers can receive up to $5,000 for documented losses from the first breach and up to $2,500 from the second. The deadline to file a claim is November 18, 2025, and payments are expected to begin after the final approval hearing on December 3, 2025. If you were an AT&T customer during either breach, you may qualify for compensation.
5G speeds ranges from around 50 Mbps to 1,000 Mbps (1 Gbps) depending on the RF channel and base station load. Faster speeds require use of the mmWave bands, reaching 4 Gbps with carrier aggregation and MIMO, assuming a perfect channel and no other base station load. Sub-6 GHz 5G (mid-band), by far the most common, can deliver between 10 and 1,000 Mbps; it will have a much further reach than mmWave bands. In the sub-6 bands, C-Band (n77/n78) was deployed by various U.S. operators in 2022.
In a bold move that pushed mobile tech into the future, T-Mobile US became the first company on the planet to launch a commercially available 5G NR Standalone network, unlocking the full power of 5G with lightning-fast speeds, ultra-low latency, and expanded coverage. But this revolution wasn’t a solo act—it was powered by a global cast of tech titans. Companies like Altiostar, Cisco, Datang/Fiberhome, Ericsson, Huawei, Nokia, Qualcomm, Samsung, and ZTE supplied the cutting-edge hardware and systems that made 5G possible, from cloud-native RANs to high-performance chipsets and base stations. Together, they didn’t just upgrade our networks—they rewired the digital world for a new era of smart cities, autonomous vehicles, and immersive experiences.
5G isn’t just hype—it’s a spectrum of speed. Depending on the radio frequency (RF) band and how busy the base station is, 5G speeds can range from a modest 50 Mbps to a blazing 1 Gbps. But if you tap into the mmWave bands—the ultra-high frequencies designed for short-range, high-capacity data—you could hit up to 4 Gbps, especially with carrier aggregation and massive MIMO, assuming ideal conditions and no congestion. Still, the real workhorse of 5G is Sub-6 GHz, particularly the mid-band spectrum, which delivers between 10 Mbps and 1 Gbps with far better reach and building penetration than mmWave. In the U.S., the C-Band (n77/n78) was rolled out in 2022, giving carriers a sweet spot between speed and coverage
5G, short for fifth-generation mobile network, is the cutting-edge standard for broadband cellular technology, officially rolled out globally in 2019. Designed to succeed 4G, it’s not just faster—it’s transformative. With speeds up to 100 times faster than 4G and ultra-low latency, 5G enables real-time responsiveness for everything from autonomous vehicles to remote surgeries. It connects not just people, but machines, devices, and smart systems, forming the backbone of the Internet of Things (IoT). Built on advanced technologies like massive MIMO, beamforming, and network slicing, 5G is engineered to handle massive data loads while maintaining reliability and speed.
Telegraphy is the long-distance transmission of messages where the sender uses symbolic codes, known to the recipient, rather than a physical exchange of an object bearing the message. A telegraph is a device for transmitting and receiving messages over long distances, i.e., for telegraphy which is widely considered to be a forerunner of the modern telephone. Telegraph dates only from 1832 when Pavel Schilling invented one of the earliest electrical telegraphs. A telegraph message sent by an electrical telegraph operator or telegrapher using Morse code (or a printing telegraph operator using plain text) was known as a telegram.
Before the age of instant messaging and viral tweets, the world relied on some truly ingenious tech to stay connected. A cablegram was the OG international message—zipping across continents via submarine telegraph cables, often called just a “cable” or “wire.” Then came the Telex, a global network of teleprinters that let businesses and governments send typed messages over a system that worked like a telephone network—think of it as email’s mechanical ancestor. And for visuals? Enter the wirephoto, a groundbreaking method that let newspapers beam photographs over phone lines, turning distant events into front-page news almost instantly. These tools didn’t just transmit information—they shrank the world, one keystroke and pixel at a time.
By the end of 2025, the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) estimates that 70% of the global population—approximately 5.56 billion people—are using the Internet, marking a 15% increase compared to 2018. This growth reflects a steady upward trend, with internet adoption expanding at an average rate of 10% annually between 2005 and 2019. While connectivity has surged, challenges remain in bridging the digital divide, especially in rural and underserved regions. The expansion of mobile broadband and LTE networks continues to play a key role in bringing more people online each year.
As of December 2024, the U.S. continues its shift toward mobile communication, with 53.9% of households relying solely on wireless phones, marking a 3.1 percentage point increase since 2016. Still, 36.8% of American families maintain a landline, showing that traditional phones haven’t vanished entirely. The trend is especially pronounced among adults aged 25–34 and renters, with over 70% living in wireless-only households. Meanwhile, 3.2% of households report having no telephone service at all, neither mobile nor landline. Interestingly, regions like the Northeast remain loyal to landlines, with 41.2% of adults still using them, and states like New York leading the pack at 52.4%. While mobile phones dominate, landlines continue to serve as a backup lifeline—especially during emergencies and outages.
Originally, the term “telecommunications” referred to the infrastructure behind long-distance telephone networks and television broadcasting systems, each using distinct technologies to transmit voice or video across vast distances. Over time, especially with the explosive growth of the Internet, the definition expanded dramatically. Today, telecommunications encompasses a broad spectrum of digital communication systems, including data networks, wireless communication, mobile broadband, and satellite systems. It’s no longer just about connecting voices or screens—it’s about enabling instant global interaction across every imaginable platform.
As of 2025, mobile connectivity has reached unprecedented levels. 95% of the global population—over 7.5 billion people—live within range of a mobile-cellular network, ensuring basic voice and text services are nearly universal. Mobile-broadband networks (3G and above) now cover over 88% of the global population, though rural access still lags at around 70%. The rapid expansion of LTE (4G) networks has brought high-speed internet to more than 4.3 billion people, or 56% of the world’s population, significantly enhancing digital experiences. Meanwhile, 5G networks have surged, now reaching over 60% of the global population, with countries like India and North America achieving 95% coverage. This explosive growth in mobile infrastructure is reshaping economies, bridging digital divides, and redefining how people connect, work, and live.
Despite remarkable growth in connectivity, 3.9 billion people—53% of the global population—remained offline in 2024. Regional disparities are stark: in Africa, nearly 75% of the population still lacks internet access, making it the most disconnected region. The Arab States and Asia-Pacific show similar figures, with 58.4% and 58.1% of their populations offline, respectively. Even in more connected regions like the Americas and the CIS, about one-third of people remain without internet. Europe leads in digital inclusion, yet 21% of its population is still offline. These numbers highlight the persistent global digital divide, shaped by infrastructure, affordability, and socio-economic factors.
By 2025, internet connectivity has become a household staple across much of the globe, yet regional disparities remain. In the Americas, nearly two-thirds of households are connected to the internet, reflecting strong infrastructure and widespread adoption. Globally, however, only about half of all households enjoy internet access, with the overall global internet penetration rate reaching 67.9%. This contrast underscores the digital divide between developed and developing regions, even as mobile technology and broadband expansion continue to push connectivity forward.
By 2024, global internet access has expanded significantly, yet a gender gap persists: 70% of men are online compared to 65% of women, leaving 189 million more male users worldwide. While regions like Europe (85% female vs. 86.5% male), CIS (78% vs. 79.5%), and the Americas (75% vs. 76.5%) have essentially achieved parity, others still lag behind. In Asia-Pacific, the gap is narrowing with 52% of women online versus 54.7% of men, but in Africa, the divide remains stark—30% of women use the internet compared to 38.5% of men. The Arab States show little change since 2016, with 39% of women online versus 45.3% of men. Globally, the gender parity score has climbed from 0.91 in 2019 to 0.94 in 2024, signaling progress, but also highlighting the need for continued efforts to ensure equal digital access across all regions.
China’s digital evolution has reached a defining moment. As of June 2025, the nation is home to 1.11 billion internet users, with an overwhelming 99.7% (1.105 billion) connecting through mobile devices. Traditional desktop and laptop usage continues to fade, as average daily screen time on smartphones climbs to 3 hours and 46 minutes, outpacing the 2 hours and 52 minutes spent on computers. This transformation is fueled by nationwide 5G coverage, the dominance of super-apps like WeChat and Douyin, and the seamless integration of mobile payments into everyday life. What began as a rising trend in 2014 has matured into a digital reality—China now stands as one of the world’s most advanced mobile-first societies, where the smartphone is not just a tool, but a gateway to modern living.
A study conducted by Sweden’s Karolinska Institute found that individuals who used mobile phones for 10 years or more had a 3.9 times higher risk of developing acoustic neuroma—a benign tumor affecting the auditory nerve—on the side of the head where the phone was typically held. This led to an overall increased risk of 1.9 times for developing such tumors. Notably, the study focused on users of analogue phones, which emit higher levels of radiation than modern digital devices. While the findings are suggestive rather than conclusive, they highlight the importance of continued research into long-term exposure and its potential health effects.
The iconic 160-character limit for SMS (Short Message Service) was conceived in 1984 during a Franco-German GSM collaboration, led by Friedhelm Hillebrand and Bernard Ghillebaert. Tasked with designing a system for sending short messages over mobile networks, they determined through extensive testing that 160 characters was sufficient to convey most concise thoughts and everyday communications. This decision became a foundational element of the GSM standard and shaped the way billions of people would communicate for decades.
Extensive research, including the COSMOS study and findings from Oxford University, has shown that mobile phone use poses no short-term risk to brain health, with no significant link to increased risk of brain tumors—even among heavy users2. However, the story shifts when it comes to sleep. Using a mobile phone before bed can interfere with the body's natural sleep cycle. The blue light emitted from screens suppresses melatonin production, the hormone responsible for regulating sleep, making it harder to fall asleep and reducing overall sleep quality. So while mobile phones may not harm the brain directly, their impact on rest and recovery is a different kind of wake-up call.
Smartphones, despite their sleek design and constant presence, are surprisingly filthy—harboring up to 20 times more bacteria than a toilet seat, with over 25,000 microbes per square inch found on average. These include potentially harmful strains like E. coli and Staphylococcus aureus, thriving thanks to everyday habits such as the 87% of people who use their phones in the bathroom. While hand hygiene is widely practiced, mobile devices often escape routine cleaning. Fortunately, with proper sanitization, up to 99.9% of bacteria can be eliminated, making regular phone cleaning a simple yet powerful step toward better hygiene.
Launched in late 2003, the Nokia 1100 became the world’s best-selling mobile phone, with over 250 million units sold globally, surpassing even the most iconic smartphones. Designed at the Nokia Design Center in California and patented in the U.S. by Bulgarian-American designer Dimitre Mehandjiysky, the 1100 was built for simplicity, durability, and affordability. Its dustproof casing, built-in flashlight, and long battery life made it a favorite in developing countries, where it often served as a first connection to mobile networks. Despite lacking flashy features, its reliability and rugged charm earned it legendary status—and even today, it holds the crown as the most popular phone ever made.
Surprisingly, the most common use of a mobile phone isn’t calling, texting, or even scrolling social media—it’s checking the time. While this action may seem trivial, it’s something users do dozens of times a day, often subconsciously. The phone has quietly replaced the wristwatch for millions, becoming the go-to timekeeper thanks to its convenience and constant presence. Though activities like email, browsing, and entertainment dominate total screen time, checking the time is the most frequent interaction, making it the quiet king of mobile habits.
In Japan, around 90% of mobile phones are waterproof, and it’s not just a tech flex—it’s a cultural necessity. This trend took off in the early 2000s when manufacturers realized that many users, especially young Japanese women, were so attached to their phones they even brought them into the shower. To meet this unique demand, brands like Casio, Fujitsu, and Panasonic began designing phones with high water resistance, often boasting IP68 ratings that allow full submersion. Today, waterproofing is a standard expectation in the Japanese market, influencing even global giants like LG and Samsung to adapt their devices for local consumers.
In Malaysia, it is legally possible for a Muslim man to divorce his wife via text message, as long as the message clearly communicates the intent to divorce using the Islamic declaration of talaq (“I divorce you”). This practice is recognized under Sharia law, which governs family matters for Muslims in Malaysia. A landmark case in 2002 confirmed its legality when a Malaysian court upheld a divorce initiated by SMS. However, while the message may serve as a valid declaration, the divorce must still be filed and approved by a Sharia court to be officially recognized. Critics argue that this method is abrupt and denies women the opportunity for reconciliation or legal recourse, sparking ongoing debate about fairness and ethics in digital-age divorces.
The first photo ever shared using a mobile phone was taken by Philippe Kahn, a French-American tech innovator, on June 11, 1997. While in a Santa Cruz hospital awaiting the birth of his daughter, Kahn ingeniously cobbled together a Motorola StarTAC flip phone, a Casio QV digital camera, and a Toshiba laptop to create a makeshift mobile photo-sharing system. When his daughter was born, he snapped a picture and instantly sent it to over 2,000 friends and family via the internet—a groundbreaking moment that laid the foundation for the camera phones and instant sharing culture we now take for granted.
On April 3, 1973, history was made on a sidewalk in New York City when Martin Cooper, an engineer at Motorola, placed the first-ever call from a handheld mobile phone. Standing near the New York Hilton with a prototype of the Motorola DynaTAC, Cooper dialed his rival, Joel Engel of Bell Labs, to deliver the ultimate flex: “I’m calling you on a cell phone, but a real cell phone, a personal, handheld, portable cell phone”. The device was bulky—about the size of a brick—and offered just 20 minutes of talk time after a 10-hour charge, but it marked the beginning of a revolution. That single call launched the mobile era, transforming communication forever and paving the way for the sleek smartphones we carry today.
In Japan, where tech meets lifestyle in the most unexpected ways, over 90% of mobile phones are waterproof—and it’s not just for surviving rainy days. Many Japanese users are so inseparable from their devices that they even take them into the shower, sparking a nationwide demand for phones that can handle steam, splashes, and full submersion. This quirky habit turned waterproofing from a luxury into a necessity, with companies like Panasonic declaring that “you can’t sell a phone if it’s not waterproof” in Japan. Global brands had to adapt, and Japan led the charge with models like the Casio Canu 502S back in 2005. Today, waterproof phones are the norm, all thanks to a culture that redefined what it means to stay connected—anytime, anywhere, even mid-shampoo.
If you're on a prepaid plan with T-Mobile or AT&T, those fleeting conversations can quietly drain your minutes thanks to some clever rounding. T-Mobile bills in full-minute chunks, so a 59-second call gets charged as two minutes. AT&T takes it further—if your call lasts between 49 and 59 seconds, you’ll still lose two minutes, and sometimes even get billed for extra seconds after you hang up. It’s all part of their “standard practice,” where billing starts the moment you hit send and doesn’t stop until the network says so. Multiply that by millions of users, and those phantom seconds turn into serious profits. Makes you wonder what other tiny time traps are hiding in your phone plan.
In 1983, the mobile phone officially entered the consumer market with the launch of the Motorola DynaTAC 8000X, a device so bulky and expensive it earned the nickname “The Brick.” Priced at a jaw-dropping $3,995 (about $10,000 in today’s money), this early cell phone weighed nearly 2 pounds, offered just 30 minutes of talk time, and took 10 hours to charge. Despite its limitations, it was a status symbol of the elite and a glimpse into the future of wireless communication. Featured in movies like Wall Street, the DynaTAC didn’t just make calls—it made history
Fascinating facts from the first 40 years of mobile phone history (1973–2013)

The first mobile phone call was made on April 3, 1973 by Martin Cooper of Motorola.
That first phone weighed 2 pounds, about the same as a bag of sugar.
It offered just 30 minutes of talk time and took 10 hours to charge.
The first commercial mobile phone, the Motorola DynaTAC, went on sale in 1983 for $3,995.
By 1990, there were 1 million mobile users in the U.S.
The first mobile call in the UK was made in 1985 by comedian Ernie Wise.
Mobile phones entered pop culture via shows like Only Fools and Horses.
Voicemail was added to mobile phones in 1986.
The first mobile internet access appeared in 1996, though it was slow and clunky.
The IBM Simon, released in 1993, was the first smartphone—with a touchscreen, calendar, and fax.
The Nokia 1100 is the best-selling phone model ever, with over 250 million units sold.
A false rumor about the Nokia 1100 enabling bank fraud boosted its second-hand value.
The first text message was sent in 1992: “Merry Christmas” by Neil Papworth.
The first photo shared via mobile was in 1997, taken by Philippe Kahn in a maternity ward.
Kahn is credited with inventing the camera phone.
By 2013, 9 out of 10 UK adults owned a mobile phone.
The Nokia 1100 also beat the PlayStation 2 as the top-selling electronic gadget.
Early mobile phones had huge antennas and were often mistaken for walkie-talkies.
Before mobile phones, pagers were the go-to for instant communication.
The highest known mobile phone bill was racked up by Celina Aarons in Florida.

As of 2025, the U.S. prepaid mobile market has seen a resurgence. While T-Mobile has around 21.2 million prepaid customers, up from 15.1 million in 2013, showing steady growth over the past decade, AT&T has approximately 8.3 million prepaid subscribers, a modest increase from 7.4 million in 2013, with slight fluctuations over the years.
In 2013, there were about 285 million tablets in use worldwide, with 70 million in the U.S.—a booming era for touchscreens and swipes. By 2025, the global tablet market is expected to reach around 180–190 million units, on track for 195 million by 2030, driven by remote work, digital classrooms, and binge-worthy streaming. In the U.S., while the number of units dips to 28.9 million, the market still rakes in a hefty $9.7 billion in revenue, thanks to a shift toward high-end devices and longer upgrade cycles. Tablets may no longer be the shiny new toy, but they've matured into sleek, multitasking machines that power everything from hospital rounds to toddler tantrums.
In 2013, the United States had approximately 299.4 million wireless broadband subscriptions, reflecting the explosive growth of mobile internet during the smartphone boom. Fast forward to 2024, and the landscape has shifted dramatically with the rise of Fixed Wireless Access (FWA) and 5G. By the end of 2024, FWA alone had reached nearly 12 million subscribers, and projections suggest the total U.S. wireless broadband base—including mobile and fixed wireless—will surpass 310 million subscriptions by 2025, driven by increased demand for high-speed, contract-free connectivity and the expansion of 5G networks.
As of recent surveys, over 50% of consumers believe mobile devices will eventually replace televisions as the primary screen for entertainment. Among Gen Z, this shift is already underway—more than half of 16- to 23-year-olds in the U.S., France, and Brazil use smartphones as their main device to watch shows, while TVs and tablets lag far behind at just 10% each. With mobile usage now surpassing TV time among U.S. adults2, and younger generations increasingly skipping TV ownership altogether, the writing’s on the wall: the future of screen time is handheld, portable, and always within reach.
Over 60% of mobile data traffic is actually carried over Wi-Fi, not cellular networks. In fact, Wi-Fi handled a whopping 65% of internet traffic in 2023, up from 55% just a few years ago. Why? Because it’s faster, cheaper, and everywhere—from your living room to your favorite café. Our devices are smart enough to switch automatically, gobbling up Wi-Fi for streaming, gaming, and endless TikTok scrolls without draining your data plan. As 5G expands and our appetite for content grows, Wi-Fi isn’t fading—it’s becoming the unsung hero of mobile connectivity.
In a staggering leap, global mobile data traffic surged by 90% in 2024, reaching 1.5 exabytes per month, up from 960 petabytes per month in 2023. That’s the digital equivalent of streaming over 375 million HD movies every month! This explosive growth is fueled by the rise of 5G—now accounting for 35% of mobile traffic—as well as the booming popularity of video content, cloud gaming, and AI-powered apps. With smartphones becoming the go-to device for everything from entertainment to work, the mobile data tsunami shows no signs of slowing down.
By 2016, Apple had sold its 1 billionth iPhone, and as of mid-2025, that number has tripled to 3 billion iPhones sold globally. This means Apple moved 2 billion units in just nine years, a testament to the iPhone’s enduring popularity and its central role in the smartphone market. In 2022 alone, Apple shipped 225.3 million iPhones, with the iPhone 14 Pro and Pro Max dominating sales. Despite market fluctuations, the iPhone remains Apple’s crown jewel, generating nearly half of the company’s revenue and maintaining a commanding lead in U.S. smartphone sales.
Back in the early 2010s, Japan had five nationwide mobile service providers: NTT DoCoMo, KDDI (au), SoftBank Mobile, eMobile, and Willcom. But the landscape has evolved dramatically. Today, the market is dominated by three major players—NTT DoCoMo, KDDI (au), and SoftBank—who together control over 90% of the market. Meanwhile, eMobile and Willcom have been absorbed into SoftBank’s operations, streamlining the competition. A new contender, Rakuten Mobile, entered the scene in 2018, shaking things up with disruptive pricing and its own network infrastructure. Alongside these giants, a growing number of MVNOs (Mobile Virtual Network Operators) like UQ Mobile and IIJmio offer budget-friendly alternatives by leasing bandwidth from the big three.
As of 2025, the number of global cellular mobile connections (excluding IoT) has reached approximately 8.74 billion, marking a 1.3% increase from the previous year. That’s a massive leap from the 5 billion connections recorded in 2010, reflecting how mobile technology has become nearly universal. With 4.77 billion unique cellular subscribers, mobile phones are now more common than clean drinking water in some regions, and smartphone ownership among young adults has hit 95%. This explosive growth is driven by expanding 5G networks, affordable devices, and the deep integration of mobile into daily life—from banking and education to entertainment and health.
After years of courtroom drama, the patent war between Nokia and Apple has transformed from bitter rivalry to strategic alliance. It all began in 2009 when Nokia tried to block Apple imports over alleged patent violations, but Apple scored a win in 2011 when a trade judge ruled in its favor. The feud reignited in 2016 with lawsuits flying across borders, but by 2020, the tech titans buried the hatchet with a multi-year licensing deal. Fast forward to 2025, and Apple is now a proud Nokia licensee, having renewed their agreement in 2024 to cover cutting-edge 5G tech. Once adversaries, they’re now quietly collaborating behind the scenes—proof that in the tech world, even the fiercest battles can end in handshake deals.
As of today, a jaw-dropping 86% of global mobile traffic is video, making it the undisputed king of mobile content. Whether it's binge-watching, TikTok scrolling, or live streaming, video is devouring bandwidth like never before. And the growth isn’t slowing down—the Middle East and Africa are leading the charge, with mobile traffic expected to grow at a CAGR of 133%, followed closely by Asia-Pacific at 119% and North America at 117%. This surge is powered by expanding 5G networks, affordable smartphones, and an insatiable global appetite for visual content on the go.
Smartphone sales have officially outpaced global PC sales, marking a pivotal shift in how the world connects, works, and plays. This milestone reflects the growing preference for mobile-first experiences, especially in emerging markets where smartphones are often the primary gateway to the internet. With over 1.5 billion smartphones shipped annually, compared to fewer than 300 million PCs, the gap continues to widen. The rise of AI-powered features, 5G connectivity, and affordable premium devices has made smartphones not just communication tools, but full-fledged productivity and entertainment hubs.
In 2024, Hong Kong’s mobile market hit astonishing heights with 25.3 million mobile subscriptions, translating to a penetration rate of 327.6%—one of the highest in the world. That means, on average, each person in Hong Kong had more than three mobile connections! Among these, 5G subscriptions soared to nearly 6.9 million, representing 91.5% penetration among mobile users. The rapid adoption of 5G reflects Hong Kong’s aggressive rollout strategy and the population’s appetite for high-speed, high-capacity mobile services.
From 276.9 million users across the US, Europe, Australia and Brazil in 2009 to a staggering 4.83 billion global email users in 2025, email has evolved from a digital novelty to an essential communication backbone. That’s more than half the world’s population actively using email, with 92% of online adults checking their inboxes and 61% doing so daily. Despite the rise of messaging apps and social media, email remains indispensable for business, marketing, and personal communication—proving that even in the age of instant everything, the inbox still reigns.
In 2024, a remarkable 77% of Americans reported watching TV while simultaneously surfing the internet—a clear sign that the living room has become a multitasking hub. Whether it's scrolling social media during a Netflix binge or checking emails while catching the news, dual-screen behavior is now the norm. This shift reflects how entertainment and digital engagement have fused, with viewers increasingly interacting with content in real time, shopping what they see on screen, or diving deeper into storylines online. The age of passive viewing is over—welcome to the era of hyper-connected entertainment.
As of 2025, China manufactures approximately 60–75% of the world’s smartphones, solidifying its role as the undisputed epicenter of mobile device production. This dominance stems from a potent mix of government support, deep supply chain integration, and the rise of homegrown giants like Xiaomi, Oppo, and Huawei. Even global leaders like Apple and Samsung rely heavily on Chinese factories for assembly. With over 380 smartphone manufacturers operating in China at one point, the country transformed from a low-cost assembler into a hub of innovation and scale. Today, Chinese firms not only build the phones but also shape global market trends, especially in Asia, Africa, and Latin America.
Prepaid calling cards remain a low-cost, reliable solution for making international long-distance calls, especially for travelers, students, and anyone with family abroad. These cards offer flexible denominations—like $5, $10, or $20—and can be used from landlines, mobile phones, or even payphones. Many modern options are PINless, have no expiration, and avoid hidden fees, making them a smart alternative to pricey international plans. Brands like Zuzume and Alo World offer hundreds of minutes for just a few dollars, and services like Tracfone’s Global Calling Card let users call both landlines and mobile numbers worldwide
The first transcontinental telephone call was made on January 25, 1915, when Alexander Graham Bell called his assistant Thomas Watson from New York to San Francisco, spanning 3,400 miles. Though the transcontinental line was completed on June 17, 1914 and successfully voice-tested in July 1914, the official call was timed to coincide with the Panama–Pacific International Exposition. Bell famously repeated his historic words, “Mr. Watson, come here. I want you,” to which Watson quipped, “It would take me five days to get there now!” The moment marked a turning point in long-distance communication, laying the groundwork for the global networks we rely on today.
On March 10, 1876, in a modest Boston lab, Alexander Graham Bell made history by speaking the first words ever transmitted over a telephone: “Mr. Watson, come here, I want to see you.” His assistant, Thomas A. Watson, heard the message clearly from the next room, confirming the success of Bell’s groundbreaking invention2. This brief but revolutionary exchange marked the birth of voice communication technology and laid the foundation for the global telecom networks we rely on today. Just three days earlier, Bell had secured his patent—setting the stage for a century of innovation that would connect the world.
In 2025, the digital world is more connected than ever, with over 8.7 billion mobile-cellular subscriptions—more lines than people—and 5.5 billion internet users, representing nearly 70% of the global population. While developed countries boast near-universal access to mobile broadband and fixed internet, developing regions are catching up fast, thanks to mobile-first connectivity. Fixed-telephone lines are fading, but mobile broadband is booming, with 6.5 billion active subscriptions driving everything from education to e-commerce. At home, 90% of households in wealthy nations are online, while mobile networks are bridging gaps in underserved areas. The gender divide in internet use is shrinking, though women in rural and developing regions still face barriers. These ICT trends aren’t just numbers—they’re the pulse of a world racing toward digital inclusion and opportunity.
Pegasus, the infamous spyware crafted by Israeli firm NSO Group, is a digital predator capable of infiltrating nearly any iOS or Android device—often without the user ever clicking a link. Using stealthy zero-click exploits, Pegasus can silently install itself via a missed call or message, then unleash full-spectrum surveillance: reading texts, tracking calls and locations, stealing passwords, and hijacking the phone’s microphone and camera to turn it into a pocket-sized spy. Marketed to governments for counterterrorism, Pegasus was instead exposed by Amnesty International and Forbidden Stories as a tool for targeting journalists, activists, and political figures, with a leaked list of 50,000 potential victims shared with outlets like The Guardian and The Washington Post. Its ability to exploit unpatched vulnerabilities and operate undetected has made Pegasus not just a technological marvel—but a chilling symbol of modern digital espionage.
Fighting back against Pegasus spyware requires a mix of vigilance, technical defenses, and awareness of how these attacks unfold. Pegasus typically infiltrates devices through zero-click exploits or phishing, meaning users may be infected without ever interacting with a suspicious link. To reduce risk, experts recommend keeping your iOS or Android system updated, using VPNs to shield against man-in-the-middle attacks, and compartmentalizing apps to limit data exposure. Tools like Amnesty International's Mobile Verification Toolkit can help detect traces of Pegasus on compromised devices. Email filtering, endpoint detection systems, and strict app permission settings also play a key role in defense. For a deeper dive into these strategies, check out this video breakdown on defending against Pegasus spyware or explore Kaspersky's guide to protecting your phone.
Governments and watchdogs worldwide are scrambling to rein in the shadowy spyware industry, but the battle is far from simple. At a dramatic UN Security Council meeting in early 2025, nations like France, South Korea, and the UK vowed to tighten regulations, while scandal-hit Poland and Greece pushed for outright bans. Meanwhile, Israel remains the epicenter of the trade, with firms like NSO Group and Cellebrite supplying surveillance tools to over 50 governments. A bombshell report from the Atlantic Council exposed a tangled web of 435 entities across 42 countries, suggesting that dismantling the market’s architecture—not just targeting rogue vendors—may be the key to reform. Yet demand surges on, especially among autocratic regimes, and critics like Russia and China accuse the West of hypocrisy, pointing to the NSA’s own surveillance history. The question now isn’t just who’s watching—but who’s watching the watchers.
The original iPad, iPad 2 through 4, and the first-gen iPad mini are capped at iOS 9 or 10, which means they’re missing out on years of security updates, performance improvements, and app compatibility. Many modern apps simply won’t install, and even those that do might crash or lag due to outdated frameworks. Plus, without current security patches, these devices are more vulnerable to exploits. Still, they can serve niche purposes—like e-readers, offline media players, or retro gaming consoles.
A tablet computer, commonly shortened to tablet, is a mobile device, typically with a mobile operating system and LCD touchscreen display processing circuitry, and a rechargeable battery in a single thin, flat package. The differences being that tablets are relatively larger than smartphones, with screens 7 inches (18 cm) or larger, measured diagonally, and may not support access to a cellular network.
The iPhone 15 and iPhone 16 each made a significant impact at launch, but in distinct ways. Released in September 2023, the iPhone 15—particularly the Pro Max model—sparked strong global demand with standout features like a 48MP camera, USB-C port, and Dynamic Island, helping Apple reclaim market leadership in Q3 2024. Its successor, the iPhone 16, arrived in September 2024 with innovations like the A18 chip, Camera Control, and enhanced Apple Intelligence integration, which propelled the standard model to outperform its Pro siblings in multiple regions. By early 2025, the iPhone 16 Plus saw a 48% boost in sales over its predecessor, and Apple captured 23% of the global smartphone market. While the iPhone 15 Pro Max initially thrilled early adopters, the iPhone 16 series redefined success by offering high-end performance with greater accessibility and broader appeal.

The September 2014 launch of the iPhone 6 and iPhone 6 Plus marked a watershed moment for Apple, with over 10 million units sold during the first weekend—doubling the record set by the iPhone 5 just two years earlier. Preorders surpassed 4 million within 24 hours, thanks to high consumer demand for the larger 4.7" and 5.5" screens, Apple Pay integration, and the fresh, streamlined design. The frenzy continued into 2015 with the iPhone 6s, which broke that record again. Yet, the iPhone 6 era stands out as a turning point in Apple’s product momentum and global hype. Since then, the company has shifted away from spotlighting launch-weekend figures, choosing instead to emphasize long-term metrics and growth in services—a sign of its evolving business strategy.
Apple sold a record-breaking 9 million new iPhone 5s and iPhone 5c models, just three days after the launch of the new iPhones on September 20, 2013.
More than 200 million Apple users are running the new iOS 7 on their iPhones and iPads, and that more than 11 million unique listeners already tuned in to iTunes Radio in the first five days after it went live.
Apple took 21 days to sell 10 million iPhone 5s; Samsung took 50 days to sell 10 million Galaxy S IIIs
Apple expects to sell about 250 million iPhone 5 with a projected revenue of $144 billion before the next generation of iPhone is released.
About 145.8 million iPhones were sold before iPhone 5 was released.
There were about 94 million iPhone sold in 2012.
Around 75% of iPhone users slept with their iPhone next to them in bed, and 94% confessed to having a certain level of addiction to their iPhone.
Apple iPhone 5 vs Apple iPhone 4 - In addition to having a size that is taller, thinner and lighter than the size of Apple iPhone 4S, Apple iPhone 5 uses 4G LTE connectivity that has a speed as four times faster than the one of Apple iPhone 4S, which only offers 3G HSDPA connectivity. iPhone 5 also has 8MP camera that can simultaneously capture 1080p HD videos and images while Apple iPhone 4 has 5MP camera that can only capture 720p HD videos.

As of 2025, Apple employs approximately 168,000 full-time employees worldwide, a nearly threefold increase from its 2012 headcount of 60,400 (including 36,000 employees in Apple's retail stores). Of this workforce, around 36,960 employees (22%) are part of Apple's retail operations, continuing to play a vital role in delivering customer experiences across its global store network. The rest are distributed across research and development, sales and marketing, operations, corporate functions, and support roles, reflecting Apple's expansion into services, AI, and hardware innovation. This growth underscores Apple's evolution from a hardware-centric company to a diversified tech powerhouse.

eMacromall.com - International Dialing Codes


Did You Know?