5 Input and Output Devices on a Smart Phone

A mobile phone has many parts that help it interact with the user and the world. Some parts are for putting information in (input), and some are for getting information out (output).

5 Common Input Devices on a Smartphone

Input devices are used to give the phone commands or information.

• Touch Screen The screen is an input device because it detects a finger’s touch. It allows a person to type, swipe, and tap to control the phone.

• Microphone The microphone captures sound. It is used during phone calls or when recording a voice message.

• Camera The camera is an input device that captures light to take photos and videos.

• Sensors Sensors are tiny parts that measure things like motion and light. For example, a sensor can tell the phone to rotate the screen when it is turned sideways.

• Fingerprint Sensor This small sensor scans a fingerprint. It is used to securely unlock the phone or approve payments.

5 Common Output Devices on a Smartphone

Output devices are used by the phone to share information with the user.

• Touch Screen The screen is also an output device because it displays information. It shows text, images, videos, and everything else needed to use the phone.

• Speaker The speaker produces sound. It is used to hear music, the other person on a phone call, or video audio.

• Flashlight (LED Light) The flashlight is an output device because the phone’s software can control it to give a signal. For example, it can be set to blink when a call or a message comes in.

• Vibration Motor This is a tiny motor inside the phone that shakes. It creates vibrations for notifications, which is an output that can be felt.

• Notification LED Some phones have a small light that blinks to give information. This is an output device that can show if there is a new message or if the battery is low, without turning on the whole screen.