Alcatel OT 300 Comprehensive Review Features & Pricing

Overview of the Alcatel OT 300

The Alcatel OT 300, launched in the year 2000, is a classic example of early mobile technology. It offers a glimpse into the simplicity and functionality that characterized mobile phones at the turn of the millennium. While it lacks many of the features found in modern smartphones, it serves as an educational reference point for understanding how mobile technology has evolved over the years.

Network

The Alcatel OT 300 supports GSM technology, specifically the GSM 900 and 1800 bands. This was typical for mobile phones of that era and allowed users to have basic voice communication services. However, it did not support data services like GPRS or EDGE, limiting its use to predominately voice calls and text-based messaging.

Design and Build

This device featured the design language typical of feature phones at the time. With dimensions of 109 x 45 x 22 mm and weight of 103 grams, it was both compact and lightweight. The phone employed a Mini-SIM card, which was common at the time. Its physical structure was designed to be durable, serving as a practical option for users who valued sturdiness and reliability over luxury.

Display

The phone came with a monochrome graphic display, capable of showing text and simple graphics across 5 lines. This limited display capability meant the phone was best suited for basic tasks such as calling and text messaging. The simplicity of the display contributed to the device’s low power consumption.

Memory

The Alcatel OT 300 was equipped with an internal phonebook capable of storing up to 100 contacts. While it lacked expandable memory via card slots, this was a sufficient amount for many users at the time, considering the phone’s basic functionality focused on communication rather than multimedia storage.

Sound and Alert Features

Despite its simplicity, the phone was equipped with a loudspeaker and supported vibration alerts alongside downloadable monophonic ringtones. However, it lacked a 3.5mm headphone jack, which is a staple in many devices today.

Communication and Connectivity

Connectivity options on the OT 300 were very basic by modern standards. The phone did not support WLAN, Bluetooth, positioning services, or FM radio, which are commonly found in current mobile devices. Its communication capabilities were mainly restricted to voice calls and SMS.

Battery Life and Performance

The device was powered by a removable Li-Ion battery which offered up to 165 hours of standby time and approximately 4 hours and 45 minutes of talk time. This was considerable at the time, providing users with extended usage before needing to recharge, which was essential given the limited functionality of the device.

Additonal Features

Alcatel OT 300 offered essential features such as an alarm clock, and the ability to play a few games including Puzzle, Music, and Logics. It also supported a basic WAP browser in models 301, 302, and 303 for minimal internet browsing.

Color Variants

To cater to varying user preferences, the device was available in five color options. This level of customization was a marketing move to make the phone appealing to a broader audience.

Conclusion

The Alcatel OT 300 is a testament to the early stages of mobile phone design and functionality. While it lacks the advanced features of today’s smartphones, it accomplished the primary goal of mobile technology at the time: providing portable and reliable communication. As we evaluate its specifications and capabilities, it is evident how far mobile technology has progressed in over two decades, both in terms of hardware advancements and software innovations.