Alcatel Fire C Specs Pricing Pros & Cons Unveiled

Overview of Alcatel Fire C

The Alcatel Fire C was a budget smartphone released in the second quarter of 2014. With an emphasis on affordability and basic functionality, this device was part of Alcatel’s initiative to bring accessible smart technology to a broader audience. Running on Firefox OS version 1.3, it showcased unique features that set it apart from other entry-level handsets available at the time.

Design and Build

The device features a compact form factor with dimensions of 112.2 x 62 x 12 mm, making it comfortable to hold and use with one hand. It weighs 100 grams, ensuring it is lightweight and portable. The design was practical, featuring a plastic body available in several color options including Mozilla Orange, White/Bluish Black, and White. The choice of a micro-SIM card makes it compatible with various networks.

Display

The Alcatel Fire C is equipped with a 3.5-inch TFT display, which supports 256K colors. This display offers a resolution of 320 x 480 pixels with a 3:2 aspect ratio, corresponding to a pixel density of approximately 165 ppi. Although not high-definition, the screen provides adequate clarity and color accuracy for basic tasks such as web browsing and watching videos.

Performance and Operating System

Powered by a dual-core 1.2 GHz processor, the Alcatel Fire C delivers satisfactory performance for everyday tasks and applications available on the Firefox OS marketplace. The device includes 512MB of RAM, which is minimal by modern standards but sufficient for the lightweight and efficient Firefox OS. This operating system was specifically designed to run well on devices with limited hardware, offering smooth navigation and app execution.

Storage

The device comes with an internal storage capacity of 4GB, which may be restrictive for users with extensive media libraries or application needs. However, it features a dedicated microSDHC slot, allowing for expandable storage to accommodate more apps, photos, and music files. This flexibility was a significant advantage for users needing additional space.

Camera

On the photography front, the Alcatel Fire C is equipped with a single VGA camera on the back, capable of capturing basic images. The camera supports video recording at 480p@30fps. However, it lacks a front-facing camera, which limits its capability for selfies or video conferencing. The camera is functional for users needing occasional image capturing.

Connectivity

The device supports GSM and HSPA network technologies, including a range of 2G and 3G bands, which ensures reliable connectivity for basic communication. The speed tops out at HSPA 21.1/5.76 Mbps. For local connectivity, it provides Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n with hotspot capability, Bluetooth 2.1, and GPS. However, it does not support NFC. The inclusion of a stereo FM radio with RDS and a 3.5mm headphone jack caters to traditional audio listening preferences.

Battery Life

The Alcatel Fire C is powered by a removable Li-Ion 1300 mAh battery, which delivers decent longevity for its specification. According to the manufacturer, the device offers up to 433 hours of standby time on 2G and up to 325 hours on 3G, along with up to 6 hours and 40 minutes of talk time on 2G and up to 2 hours and 40 minutes on 3G. This makes it suitable for users who prioritize extended battery life over frequent charging.

Sensors and Features

In terms of sensors, the Alcatel Fire C includes an accelerometer and a proximity sensor, which are standard for devices in its category. These sensors enable basic functionalities, such as text rotation and call management. However, its simplicity means it lacks advanced sensors found in more recent smartphones.

Market Position and Price

Upon release, the Alcatel Fire C was priced at approximately 30 EUR, reflecting its budget-friendly appeal. It targeted individuals seeking a simple, functional smartphone without the complexities and higher costs associated with more advanced models. Despite its discontinuation, it remains a noteworthy example of efforts to democratize smartphone technology through affordable solutions.

Conclusion

The Alcatel Fire C stands as a testament to the movement towards affordable smartphones designed for basic use. With its rudimentary features and straightforward design, it provides essential smartphone capabilities while highlighting the versatility of the Firefox OS. While it may not cater to power users, its simplicity and affordability made it an attractive choice for those entering the smartphone market for the first time.