From Buttons To Touch Screens
The year 2001 marked a significant turning point in Nigeria with the introduction of Global System for Mobile Communications (GSM). Initially, owning a GSM phone was regarded as a luxury, accessible primarily to the affluent or individuals from upper economic classes. However, over time, the landscape changed drastically, leading to the widespread availability of mobile phones. By the time we reached the mid-20,00s, it was common to find at least one person with a GSM phone in many households, illustrating the technology's growing significance in everyday life.
Personally, I acquired my first mobile phone around 2005, and it felt like one of my greatest achievements at the time. Although it was a used Nokia 3310 that I purchased from a friend, the impact it had on my life was profound. Suddenly, I was able to make calls freely, and my enthusiasm soared; I finally felt like I was part of the modern world. With my new mobile device, I gained the confidence to approach girls and ask for their phone numbers, something I had previously only done mentally. Furthermore, I started composing heartfelt text messages for my girlfriends, experiencing a sense of joy and excitement that was truly fulfilling.
My journey into the realm of technology continued with the introduction of computers. In 2004, I began operating a computer while pursuing a diploma course in computer studies. At that time, my understanding of computer operations was limited to following instructions provided by my school and lecturers. I did not own a personal laptop or desktop, which restricted my exploration of the digital realm. Nonetheless, the learning experience was invaluable, and I became proficient in navigating various software applications.
The moment I acquired my own laptop, everything changed. Having already learned the basics in school, I was eager to explore new functionalities independently. One of my favorite activities was using Microsoft Encarta, an encyclopedia that allowed me to learn about a vast array of subjects and explore different cultures and histories. If I wasn’t typing assignments, I could often be found engrossed in Encarta, which broadened my knowledge and understanding of the world.
Comparing the phone and laptop usage of my earlier years to the present age highlights the significant advancements in technology and changes in user habits. Today, smartphones have evolved from simple calling devices into powerful multi-functional gadgets. They offer countless applications that enable instant communication through calls, texts,
social media, and messaging apps. Smartphones also provide access to vast information, entertainment, and educational resources.
Laptops have become more portable, powerful, and affordable. They enable remote work and online learning ,seamless multitasking and productivity and endless entertainment options.
The differences in phone and laptop usage between then and now are striking. Then, phones are used basically for calling and texting, even with phones with Internet access, there a lot to the use of that.
Laptops were also primarily for work and education.
But now, Smartphones offer advanced cameras, GPS, and apps, Laptops provide enhanced processing power, storage, and graphics, also, internet accessibility and speed have increased exponentially.
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I smiled when you said the moment you had your laptop, everything changed because I can relate. I remember encarta kids. There was a lot of things to be learned from it. I remember learning some interesting history from it with all those “pharaoh” images.
Ms Encarta encyclopedia, Encarta kids, so lovely and educative then.
That phone, I only got to see what it looked like in a phone booth when mom would make calls for 20 naira during the time she had no phone credits. That was it. lol. But yes, technology has evolved. It has so improved and we see it changing still
Yes, nokia 3310 was like the best, the strongest and the most durable phone then, way back in those days.