Price and specifications of alcatel OT-E256 advantages, disadvantages, and a comprehensive explanation

Introduction to Alcatel OT-E256

The Alcatel OT-E256, announced in the first quarter of 2005, presents a classic example of feature phones that dominated the early 2000s. Featuring basic functionalities focused solely on calls and messages, the OT-E256 served as a reliable and straightforward telecommunications device without the complexities of modern smartphones.

Design and Build

In terms of design, the Alcatel OT-E256 embraced simplicity with compact dimensions of 83 x 43 x 22 mm and a lightweight body weighing just 75 g. It was easy to carry, fitting comfortably into the pocket, a key advantage for users seeking portability. Crafted for practicality, the phone was available in three distinct colors: Thinking Black, Metallic Blue, and Lipstick Red, catering to various aesthetic preferences.

Display Features

The device sported a CSTN display capable of showing 4096 colors, providing users with basic visual feedback in a resolution of 102 x 80 pixels. While these specifications are modest by today's standards, for its time, it provided just enough clarity for navigating menus and reading messages.

Network and Connectivity

Operating on GSM 900/1800 bands, the Alcatel OT-E256 ensured users remained connected for voice communications. However, it lacked advanced data connectivity options such as GPRS and EDGE, typical for many phones of its era that focused solely on voice and text functionalities. The absence of WLAN, Bluetooth, USB, and any positioning technology underscored its role as a basic mobile phone.

Memory and Storage

The phone featured a practical but limited internal memory structure, accommodating up to 250 phonebook entries. This constraint necessitated careful management of contacts but was sufficient for basic usage patterns of the time. Additionally, the Alcatel OT-E256 maintained records of the last 10 dialed, received, and missed calls, providing users with essential call history tracking capabilities without the complexity of expandable storage.

Sound and Alert Types

Audio aspects of the device were equally straightforward, featuring vibration alerts alongside polyphonic (16) ringtones. The lack of a loudspeaker and 3.5mm jack highlighted its design focus, prioritizing essential telephonic functions over multimedia playback capabilities.

Battery Life and Power Management

Equipped with a removable Li-Ion 650 mAh battery, the Alcatel OT-E256 offered impressive standby and talk times. It could last up to 270 hours on standby and provide up to 10 hours of talk time, a testament to its energy-efficient design tailored for prolonged use without frequent recharge cycles.

Additional Features

The feature set of the Alcatel OT-E256 included basic SMS and EMS messaging. It lacked a web browser and Java support, emphasizing its focus on primary communication functions. Users could enjoy two built-in games, offering limited entertainment. No additional sensors were included, aligning with its straightforward design ethos.

Conclusion

In summary, the Alcatel OT-E256 embodied the essence of early 2000s mobile technology: simplicity, reliability, and cost-effectiveness. It catered to users who required a dependable communication device without the extraneous features common in today's smartphones. Despite its discontinued status, the OT-E256 represents a nostalgic piece of mobile history, reflecting an era when phones were primarily about staying connected through calls and texts.