Phones are an essential part of everyday life in Germany, as they are in most countries around the world. However, you may notice some differences in what Germans call mobile phones compared to other places. Here is a quick overview of the various terms used for phones in Germany.
Handy
The most common word for a mobile phone in German is “das Handy” or just “Handy.” This comes from the English word “handheld.” Germans adopted this shortened form to refer to mobile phones in the 1990s when they were becoming more widespread.
Mobiltelefon
“Das Mobiltelefon” is a more technical German word that translates directly to “mobile telephone.” This term is not used quite as often in everyday German, but you may still come across it, especially in more formal contexts.
Natel
In Swiss German, the main term used is “Natel.” This is an abbreviation of “Nationales Autotelefon,” referring to the early car phones used in Switzerland. The Natel remains the standard Swiss German word for mobile phones.
Telefon
Germans sometimes simply say “das Telefon” or “Telefon” when referring to a mobile phone. In English, using “telephone” this way sounds outdated, since we now distinguish landline telephones from mobile phones. But in German, “Telefon” can still be used for both.
History of Mobile Phone Terminology in Germany
The history of what Germans call mobile phones reflects their changing technology and growing ubiquity in society over recent decades.
1980s to 1990s – Early Mobile Phones
The first commercially available mobile phones arrived in Germany in the mid-1980s. Some early terms used at the time included:
– Autotelefon – Car telephone
– Knochen/Knochensack – Bone or bonesack (referring to the phone’s size and weight)
– Großes Telefon – Big telephone
1990s – Widespread Adoption
As mobile phones became smaller and more affordable during the 1990s, the term “Handy” caught on as the most popular way to refer to them. “Mobiltelefon” also came into use as a technical term.
2000s to Today – Ubiquitous Smartphones
By the 2000s, mobile phones had become ubiquitous in German life. As they evolved into smartphones, Germans continued using the established terms “Handy” and “Mobiltelefon.” The word “Telefon” also took on mobile phone meanings.
Regional Variations
There are some regional differences across German-speaking areas in how phones are referred to:
| Region | Term Used |
| Germany | Handy |
| Austria | Handy, Mobiltelefon |
| Switzerland | Natel, Handy |
As shown in the table above, “Handy” is ubiquitous, but Switzerland also uses the unique term “Natel.” Austrians understand both “Handy” and “Mobiltelefon.”
Other Mobile Phone-Related Terms
Beyond the device itself, German also has various words for mobile phone functions and accessories:
SIM Card
– SIM Karte – SIM card
Calls/Texting
– Anrufen – To call
– SMS – Text message
– Jemandem schreiben – To text someone
Data/Internet
– Mobile Daten – Mobile data
– Surfen – To surf the internet
Accessories
– Ladegerät – Charger
– Kopfhörer – Headphones
– Hülle – Case
Conclusion
While “Handy” is the most common German term, you may also hear phones referred to as “Mobiltelefon,” “Telefon,” or regional words like “Natel.” The specific vocabulary has evolved along with the technology itself. But Germany’s mobile phone language remains consistent in its efficiency and practicality, suiting a device that has become an everyday essential. With the basics above, you can now navigate how Germans refer to phones in conversation or text.