SpecEagle
Launch report · Motorola

Motorola StarTAC: 1996 first true clamshell phone.

SpecEagle Editorial·Jan 1996·$1000·Score 60/100

Motorola's 1996 StarTAC invented the true clamshell phone — sold 60 M+ units, defined flip era.

Key specs at launch

Display
4-line LCD
Form
Clamshell
Network
AMPS / GSM
Weight
88 g
What stands out
  • First true clamshell phone.
  • 88 g featherweight.
  • First vibrate alert.
  • Sold 60 M+ units.
What to watch
  • $1,000 launch price.
  • Analog AMPS network.
  • 4-line LCD.
  • No camera/data.