Alcatel OTE260 Specs Pricing Pros & Cons Unveiled

Overview and Launch

The Alcatel OT-E260 was an entry-level feature phone announced in the first quarter of 2006. Aimed at users seeking basic communication functionality, this handset was part of Alcatel's strategy to deliver cost-effective mobile solutions for the masses. Although it has been discontinued, its simplicity and reliability made it an appealing choice at the time of its release.

Design and Build Quality

The Alcatel OT-E260 boasts a compact design with dimensions of 87 x 45 x 25.5 mm and a weight of only 90 g. Its light and portable form factor made it convenient for users to carry, especially when compared to the bulkier phones of its era. Featuring a Mini-SIM slot, this phone was designed for straightforward functionality without the complexities associated with modern smartphones.

Display

Equipped with a 1.5-inch CSTN display, the Alcatel OT-E260 showcased 4096 colors, making it functional for essential on-screen tasks. The display's resolution of 102 x 80 pixels was modest, achieving a pixel density of approximately 86 ppi. Although the phone's display features were basic, they sufficed for text and simple graphics, aligning with the phone's purpose as a communication device.

Network and Connectivity

The Alcatel OT-E260 operated on GSM technology, supporting 2G bands including GSM 900 and 1800. Notably, it lacked support for GPRS and EDGE, limiting its data communication capabilities. The absence of advanced network features underscores its placement as a basic mobile phone, prioritizing voice communication over internet connectivity.

Storage and Memory

With no card slot available, the OT-E260 relied entirely on its built-in storage for contact and call record management. It accommodated up to 250 phonebook entries and maintained records for 10 dialed, 10 received, and 10 missed calls. This storage specification highlights the phone's focus on basic call and text functionalities without provision for expandable memory or additional data storage.

Battery Life

The phone was powered by a removable Li-Ion 650 mAh battery, a standard capacity for feature phones at the time. It offered up to 270 hours of standby time and up to 10 hours of talk time, ensuring that users could depend on the device for extended periods without needing frequent recharges. The ability to remove and replace the battery added an element of longevity, allowing users to easily swap in a new battery if needed.

Sound and Alerts

Sound features on the Alcatel OT-E260 were in line with its basic nature, offering polyphonic ringtones and vibration alerts. However, it did not include a loudspeaker or a 3.5mm audio jack for headphones, limiting audio capabilities to built-in alerts and notifications. These sound specifications reflect the phone's focus on essential mobile communication rather than multimedia use.

Messaging and Applications

The device supported SMS and EMS for messaging, which allowed users to send basic text messages and enhanced messages with simple media attachments. There was no browser functionality, and it did not support Java applications, further illustrating its purpose for communication rather than computing or internet usage. For entertainment, the phone came pre-loaded with two simple games, providing a touch of leisure activity.

Miscellaneous Features

Additional features of the Alcatel OT-E260 included its black color design, which offered a clean and understated aesthetic. The lack of advanced features such as GPS, radio, Bluetooth, or USB connectivity underlines the phone's primary role as a straightforward mobile phone. This minimalist approach catered to users who preferred simplicity and reliability over technological sophistication.

Conclusion

The Alcatel OT-E260 exemplifies an era of mobile phones focused on delivering basic communication functions at an affordable price point. Its straightforward design, essential features, and practical form factor appealed to users looking for reliability without the complexities of modern smartphones. While it may seem simplistic by today's standards, the OT-E260 fulfilled its purpose effectively during its time of availability, making it a notable part of Alcatel's mobile phone lineup.