Cell Phone Culture

Providing the first comprehensive, accessible, and international introduction to cell phone culture and theory, this book is a clear and sophisticated overview of mobile telecommunications, putting the technology in historical and technical context. Interdisciplinary in its conceptual framework, "Cell Phone Culture" draws on a wide range of national, regional, and international examples, to carefully explore the new forms of consumption and use of communication and media technology that the phenomenon of mobiles represents. This fascinating biography of an important cultural object: adopts an integrated multiperspective approach; considers the mobile phone and its history, production, design, consumption and representation; and examines the implications in contemporary media convergence such as digital photography and mobile internet. Also reflecting on the challenges and provocations of mobile phone technology and use, this is an absolute must read for any student of media studies, cultural studies or technology.