What 2014 invention is a monopod used to take selfie photographs?

The monopod used to take selfie photographs is called a selfie stick.

A selfie stick is a handheld, extendable monopod designed to hold a smartphone or compact camera farther from the photographer. This extra distance allows people to include themselves and more of their surroundings in a single image. Many models use a small Bluetooth shutter button or a wired connection so the user can take the photograph without reaching for the phone's screen.

The device became a major consumer trend around 2014, when smartphone cameras, front-facing cameras, and social-media sharing were already widespread. Its popularity led to widespread coverage and also to restrictions at museums, stadiums, theme parks, and other crowded venues because the long arm could obstruct views or create safety risks.

The 2014 date describes the invention's rise into mainstream culture rather than the first ever monopod design. Earlier camera holders and similar self-portrait devices existed, but the modern smartphone-oriented product became known by the catchy name selfie stick. It is also sometimes confused with a tripod: a selfie stick is normally a single, handheld support, while a tripod has three legs and can stand independently.