Smartphones

Definition

Smartphones are mobile devices that combine the functionality of a cell phone with the features of a computer, allowing users to access the internet, run applications, and perform various tasks on the go. They have become central to how people consume news and information, significantly influencing what stories are considered newsworthy and how they are disseminated.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Smartphones have revolutionized news consumption by allowing users to receive real-time updates and notifications from news apps and social media.
2. The ability to share photos and videos instantly via smartphones has led to an increase in user-generated content being considered newsworthy.
3. News organizations often prioritize stories that are easily shareable or can be quickly consumed in a short format, which aligns with how people use smartphones.
4. Smartphones enable location-based news delivery, meaning users can receive information relevant to their specific area or interests.
5. The rise of smartphones has prompted journalists to adapt their reporting styles to fit smaller screens, leading to shorter articles and more visually engaging content.

Review Questions

• How have smartphones changed the way news is consumed by the public?
  • Smartphones have fundamentally altered news consumption by providing instant access to information anytime and anywhere. They allow users to receive push notifications for breaking news and access a wide range of sources through apps and social media. This immediacy has shifted audience expectations regarding how quickly they want news updates, leading to a demand for timely and concise reporting.
• Evaluate the impact of smartphones on the types of stories that are considered newsworthy.
  • Smartphones have led to an emphasis on stories that can be quickly shared or consumed in brief formats. The immediacy of smartphone access means that breaking news, viral content, and visually compelling stories often gain priority in the media landscape. This shift can sometimes lead to a focus on sensationalism over depth, as outlets compete for attention in a crowded digital space.
• Assess the implications of smartphone usage for journalism in terms of accessibility and audience engagement.
  • The widespread use of smartphones has made journalism more accessible than ever, allowing people from diverse backgrounds to engage with news content. However, this accessibility also highlights issues related to the digital divide, as not everyone has equal access to technology or reliable internet service. As journalists adapt their content for mobile platforms, they must also consider how to engage audiences effectively while ensuring that vital information reaches those who may be underserved by traditional media channels.

Related terms

Mobile Journalism: The practice of gathering, producing, and distributing news content using mobile devices, particularly smartphones, making news reporting more accessible and immediate.

Social Media: Online platforms where users can create, share, and interact with content, which smartphones have made more accessible, greatly impacting news consumption and distribution.

Digital Divide: The gap between individuals who have easy access to digital technology and those who do not, affecting how different populations consume news through smartphones.