In what year did cell phones first become available to consumers?

Answer 1

In the late 80's, early 90.s

Answer 2

The first call was made with a mobile phone in 1973. Public trials of the first cell phone system began in Chicago in 1978, with 2000 trial customers. The FCC (which regulates air waves) authorized commercial cell service for the US in 1982. By 1987, the first system had exceeded its capacity, and researchers began developing new ways to transmit more calls.

*This is the history of the truly mobile phone. Car phone technology has been in use by the police since 1947

Answer 3

The introduction of cells for mobile phone base stations, invented in 1947 by Bell Labs engineers at AT&T, was further developed by Bell Labs during the 1960s.

Answer 4

In 1991 my friend was working for Nextel and she had a cell phone that was about a 10" Cube that sat in the middle console or was a sort of console. I know this didn't answer your question but it was real life and not a movie prop.--very good Q.

Yes, it looked like what the previous answer described and I am absolutely certain of the year.

Answer 5

Mobile telephones in cars were in operation in the early 1960's in Australia using a two-way radio system calling a Telstra base station who then connected you to the telephone you wanted to contact. In reverse, a person rang a certain number which then connected you to the mobile phone in the car.

I assume that the system was in operation in the US slightly earlier.

Answer 6

The year Saved By The Bell premiered.

Answer 7

My dad got a "bag phone" in about 1987 -- the battery was so big that it was in a leather bag, and the handset was on a traditional cord. It also had a car adapter.

Answer 8

I Think it is in the 80's becuz in Twister she had a phone, that was in 96, but then another movie i saw, and i cannot remember the name, but it was in 88, so sometime around there.