Alcatel OTE252 Comprehensive Review of Features Pricing Pros & Cons

Overview and History

The Alcatel OT-E252 was announced in the first quarter of 2005, at a time when mobile phones were primarily used for calls and text messages. The device gained recognition for its simplicity and affordability, catering to users who needed a basic phone without the complexities of modern smartphones. The OT-E252 was discontinued a few years after its release, as the mobile phone industry evolved rapidly to integrated features such as cameras, internet browsing, and advanced multimedia capabilities.

Design and Build

The Alcatel OT-E252 was compact and lightweight, with dimensions of 97 x 43 x 19 mm, and a weight of just 76 grams. This made it easy to carry and use single-handedly. The phone used a Mini-SIM and came in three colors: Glossy Black, Metallic Purple, and Pearl Grey. Although the exterior design was minimalist, it featured a CSTN display capable of showing 4096 colors. However, the resolution was limited to 102 x 80 pixels, which was typical for phones of that era.

Display

Equipped with a CSTN screen, the Alcatel OT-E252's display was adequate for basic tasks such as navigating menus and reading SMS. The colorful display was functional for its time but lacked the sharpness and clarity modern users expect from their devices. The phone's display was a reflection of its foundational function as a communication device, rather than a multimedia one.

Network and Connectivity

In terms of connectivity, the Alcatel OT-E252 supported GSM 900 and 1800 bands, making it compatible with the majority of networks worldwide during its period of production. However, it did not support GPRS or EDGE, thereby limiting its capabilities to basic call and SMS functionalities. Modern-day connectivity features such as Bluetooth, WLAN, radio, and USB were not present, consistent with its classification as a feature phone.

Memory

Memory capabilities on the Alcatel OT-E252 were quite limited. The phone could store a phonebook of up to 250 entries. Call records were maintained for 10 dialed, 10 received, and 10 missed calls, providing users with essential tracking functionality. However, there was no card slot for memory expansion, which meant that users had to manage their storage carefully given the device's constraints.

Sound and Alerts

Alert types on the Alcatel OT-E252 included vibration and polyphonic ringtones, providing a variance of sounds for incoming calls and notifications. Despite lacking a loudspeaker and a 3.5mm jack, users were able to personalize their auditory notifications with polyphonic sound capabilities, which were a novelty at that time.

Battery Life

The device featured a removable Li-Ion 650 mAh battery. This battery size allowed for standby times of up to 250 hours and up to 5 hours of talk time. Battery life was one of the key selling points for such feature phones, as they afforded users extended use without the need for frequent recharging, which is a major advantage over many modern smartphones.

Software and Features

The Alcatel OT-E252 was designed with simplicity in mind, running on a feature phone operating system. It supported basic SMS messaging and came pre-installed with two games: Bricks and Tetris, offering light entertainment. Lacking a web browser, the device did not cater to internet usage, emphasizing its core function as a communication tool. The phone did not incorporate Java, which further limited the software capabilities and prevented the installation of additional applications.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Alcatel OT-E252 represented a segment of mobile phones that prioritized simplicity, durability, and affordability. It targeted consumers seeking a straightforward device for calls and messaging without the frills of a modern smartphone. While the features were basic, they were adequate for the needs of users in the mid-2000s. For today’s standards, the lack of a camera, internet connectivity, and expansive memory would make this device impractical for those accustomed to contemporary smartphones. However, for its time, the OT-E252 was a testament to efficiency and reliability in the rapidly evolving landscape of mobile technology.