January 3rd marks significant milestones in both technological innovation and American history. The day is remembered for the release of the world's first flip phone, as well as the official statehood of Alaska in the United States.
The Motorola StarTAC, a clamshell flip phone, debuted on January 3, 1996, revolutionizing mobile communication. This compact device, weighing under 100 grams, marked a major shift towards portable technology. Its design, though inspired by science fiction, quickly became a status symbol.
However, the StarTAC was not accessible to all. Its initial price tag of $1,000, equivalent to over $3,200 today when adjusted for inflation, reflected its innovative nature. The phone had the ability to receive SMS messages but could not send them.
Despite its limitations, the StarTAC’s impact on the industry was immense. Magazine ads featured cardboard cut-outs to showcase its small size. Today, the original devices still hold value, with some being sold on online marketplaces like eBay.
Also on January 3rd, but in 1959, Alaska was officially recognized as the 49th U.S. state. This event followed the US purchase of the territory from Russia in 1867. Alaska's strategic importance became prominent after World War II, due to its geographical proximity to Russia and Eastern Europe.
The path to statehood was decades-long, driven by local residents advocating for Alaska's official inclusion. A vote held in 1958 solidified the public’s decision for immediate admission, with Hawaii following as the 50th state in the same year.
