David Potter CBE: Scientist, entrepreneur and pioneer of mobile computing
Dr. David Potter, a pioneering scientist and entrepreneur who founded Psion and helped shape the mobile computing industry, has passed away. His legacy includes significant contributions to smartphone technology and extensive philanthropic support for education and entrepreneurship.
Why it matters
Potter's work was foundational to the development of modern mobile devices and smartphones, marking a significant chapter in the history of personal computing.
London Business School mourns the passing of Dr David Potter CBE
London Business School mourns the passing of Dr David Potter CBE , entrepreneur, scientist and philanthropist, whose vision helped shape modern mobile computing and whose generosity left a lasting legacy at the School.
Born in East London, South Africa, in 1943, Potter studied Natural Sciences at Trinity College, Cambridge, before completing a doctorate in mathematical physics at Imperial College London. After an academic career in the UK and the US, he founded Psion in 1980, transforming portable computing with the launch of the Psion Organiser in 1984. Widely regarded as the world's first successful handheld computer for personal information management, it paved the way for today's smartphones.
Get smarter about the news
Sign up free for a feed built around what you actually care about, Dive Deeper research on any story, and the full text of every article.
Create free accountAlready have an account? Sign in