Overview of Alcatel OT-216

The Alcatel OT-216 is a feature phone launched in 2010, primarily designed as a basic mobile device in an era transitioning to smartphones. It offers essential functions without the complexities and high costs associated with modern smartphones, catering to users who prioritize simplicity, ease of use, and basic communication features.

Network and Connectivity

The device supports GSM technology, operating on GSM 900 and 1800 bands. While it provides basic GPRS connectivity with Class 10 speed, it does not support EDGE or any advanced mobile data technology. This makes it suitable mainly for voice calls and simple SMS communication without access to internet browsing or app-based messaging services.

Launch and Discontinuation

Announced in February 2010, the Alcatel OT-216 was released in the second quarter of the same year. It has since been discontinued, but it remains a point of interest for those studying the progression of mobile phone technology and for users who prefer basic phones for their fundamental capabilities.

Body and Design

The Alcatel OT-216, with dimensions of 106 x 46 x 14.5 mm and weighing only 60 grams, is remarkably compact and lightweight. Its design enables easy handling and portability, fitting comfortably in the palm or pocket. The phone supports a Mini-SIM card, aligning with the standards of its time.

Display

Featuring a 1.5-inch CSTN display capable of showing 65K colors, the phone's screen simplifies navigation and usage. With a resolution of 128 x 128 pixels and a screen-to-body ratio of approximately 14.9%, the display offers a modest visual representation, suitable for basic tasks and minimalistic visuals.

Memory and Storage

The Alcatel OT-216 lacks external storage options, such as a card slot, limiting its storage capabilities. However, it allows for up to 100 phonebook entries, sufficient for users seeking basic functionality. Call records can store details of the last 20 dialed, received, and missed calls.

Camera

The device includes a VGA main camera on the rear, primarily intended for basic photography without advanced features. As expected, there is no video recording capability or front-facing camera, reflecting its aim as a basic communication tool rather than a multimedia device.

Audio and Sound

The Alcatel OT-216 is equipped with a loudspeaker for hands-free calls or media playback. There is, however, no 3.5mm audio jack, which limits options for using headphones or external speakers without an adapter.

Communication Features

While lacking Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, the phone does provide an FM radio with RDS, offering some entertainment options. The device includes a miniUSB port, but it is used solely for charging, not data transfer.

Software and Applications

Running on a basic feature phone OS, the Alcatel OT-216 supports SMS messaging and a WAP 2.0 browser for very limited web access. Preloaded games are available for user entertainment, though it does not support Java-based applications, reducing the potential for software expansion beyond its default offerings.

Battery Life

The device houses a removable Li-Ion 650 mAh battery, offering significant standby times of up to 400 hours and talk time of up to 7 hours. These specs highlight the device's efficiency, largely due to its low-resource consumption features.

Color Options

The handset is available in various colors, including grey, deep red, orange, and apple green, allowing users to choose according to their personal style preferences.

Conclusion

In summary, the Alcatel OT-216 is an embodiment of simplicity, catering to users seeking a mobile phone focused on core functionalities like voice calls and text messaging. Its lightweight design, basic camera, and long battery life make it an appealing choice for those who value practical communication over advanced multimedia capabilities.