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Every Single Little Way Smartphones Have Changed Your Life

By Annie Gabillet

Updated on July 24, 2015 at 10:40 AM

Taking a break from your smartphone helps you see the world in a different way — but who are we kidding? We couldn't last long without one. From the day Steve Jobs announced the original iPhone in 2007 and popularized touchscreen devices, they have revolutionized the world. Soon after came apps on our iPhones and Androids, which brought features we never knew we needed. So the next time you lament how everyone is glued to their screens, take a step back and think about how these powerful handheld computers have improved our lives and helped us stay connected with the people we love. Hopefully with time, we'll find a balance and a way to separate the good from the bad. Until then, let's look back at all the smartphone life improvements we sometimes take for granted.

01

The entirety of human knowledge is at your fingertips, settling all trivial dinner table arguments.

02

You can watch little ones grow up with FaceTime.

03

Shan L. via Apple

You have a camera with you at all times.

04

You'll never be lost again.

05

Expensive long-distance fees are long gone.

06

Online shopping means you never have to go to the mall.

07

Instagram | rcronan88

Emoji make life more fun.

08

You can watch your shows "with" your BFF who lives somewhere else.

09

Your music library is in your pocket.

10

You don't have to wait for the weatherman's segment on the nightly news.

11

No more awkward credit card splitting at dinner, thanks to payment apps like Venmo.

12

Reddit user Oriek via Imgur

You can keep in touch with Grandma on Facebook.

13

Instagram | the_frank_files

Or feel your mom's love over text message.

14

You can access recipes easily at the store or in the kitchen.

15

No need for cash or card to hitch a ride.

16

You don't have to listen to every voice mail to get to the good ones.

17

The radio goes with you everywhere.

18

You can watch a movie while you wait at the airport — or anywhere, really.

19

You're always prepared, with a flashlight and compass.

20

It's easy to monitor your spending.

21

Or track your fitness goals.

22

You don't need a notebook to jot down genius ideas.

23

Buh-bye to carrying heavy guidebooks around on vacation.

24

Instagram | anniegabillet

Snapchat, Instagram, and MMS pictures are way easier than postcards.

25

And finally, you always know who sings that song.

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