This paper introduces the concept of a smart city, exploring the practical application of the latest digital technology and innovation in everyday urban life to create services and products tailored to the needs of city dwellers and to improving their quality of life. Among other things, smart city technology solutions are used in the fields of security, healthcare, social welfare, education, democratic development, transport and mobility, environmental improvement and sustainability as well as in improving the efficiency of public utilities, and saving resources. Putting the smart city concept into practice requires a well-developed communications and technology infrastructure, involving the development of geospatial technology, big data, Artificial Intelligence, and the Internet of Things. The paper provides a number of examples of smart city projects successfully implemented in urban areas all around the globe. The concerns expressed by researchers and practitioners about the potential risks and challenges posed by the interaction of smart technology with everyday urban life are also discussed in the paper.