The History of Consumer Electronics & When Were They First Invented?

The History of Consumer Electronics

Once scientists and researchers began discovering the powers of electricity hundreds of years ago, it was only a matter of time until devices for household use would emerge onto the scene. In today’s society, consumer electronics dominate everyday life. Think about TVs, computers, and smartphones—devices that most people use for the majority of each day. But while electricity was likely discovered thousands of years ago by ancient societies and studied closely beginning around 400 years ago, the history of consumer electronics is far younger.

When were consumer electronics first invented?

It is nearly impossible to pinpoint exactly when electronics for consumers were first invented, but the most logical place to begin is with Thomas Edison’s electric typewriter and phonograph inventions in the 1870s. As the inventor who illuminated the world for most Americans around the same time with his innovative lightbulb and electrical grid, Edison rightly takes his place at the forefront in the history of electronics for consumers as well. While consumer electronics are electronics that can be used by the masses in private households, Edison’s devices did not meet the definition. Instead he laid the groundwork for others to pioneer the industry.

Beginning in the early 1900s, the radio became the first true consumer electronic device, bringing a fully electric machine into the homes of millions of Americans for the first time. From that point in the history of consumer electronics, more devices such as speakers and televisions entered the market. By 1967, what would become the world’s largest consumer electronics show—now simply known as CES in Las Vegas—was founded. Today, consumer electronics dominate the lives of most people daily. From smartphones to QLED TVs to tablets to computers. In addition, activity trackers to video game consoles and even smart home devices.