IBM Simon: The First Touchscreen Smartphone | Vibepedia

The IBM Simon, released on August 16, 1994, was a groundbreaking device that combined the features of a phone, computer, and personal digital assistant (PDA). It had a 320x240 monochrome touchscreen display, email, fax, and phone capabilities, as well as a calendar and address book. The device was the brainchild of IBM engineer Frank Canova and was initially priced at $999. With a vibe score of 8, the IBM Simon is widely regarded as the first smartphone, influencing the development of subsequent devices like the Apple iPhone and Samsung Galaxy series. The IBM Simon's impact on the technology industry is still debated among historians and tech enthusiasts, with some arguing that it was a commercial failure, while others see it as a pioneering achievement. As of 2023, the IBM Simon remains a significant milestone in the evolution of mobile technology, with its legacy continuing to shape the industry.