The initial commercially available cellular telephone with a hinged design, commonly referred to as a clamshell or folding phone, emerged in 1996. This design incorporated a microphone and speaker in separate sections that could be folded together for storage and protection, and unfolded for use.
The advent of this form factor provided several advantages. It offered a degree of protection to the screen and keypad against scratches and accidental activation while not in use. The design also allowed for a more compact device when closed, improving portability. Furthermore, the physical separation of the microphone and speaker generally improved audio quality during calls by positioning them closer to the mouth and ear, respectively. The introduction of this design marked a significant step in the evolution of mobile communication devices, paving the way for future innovations in size and functionality.
