Alcatel OTS120 Unveiling Specs Pricing Pros & Cons

Overview of the Alcatel OT-S120

The Alcatel OT-S120 is a feature phone that was part of Alcatel's efforts to provide simple, reliable, and affordable mobile communication solutions. Launched in February 2008 and released in April of the same year, this device marked a period where feature phones were essential tools for everyday communication, especially in regions where smartphones were not yet prevalent or were too expensive for the average consumer.

Design and Build

The Alcatel OT-S120 boasts a compact design, measuring 98 x 44 x 12.3 mm. It is designed to fit comfortably in one hand, making it easy to use and carry. However, it lacks detailed information about its weight, but its compact size suggests a lightweight device. The phone uses a Mini-SIM card and comes in simple color options of Black and Black&White, providing a sleek and straightforward aesthetic suitable for users who prefer minimalist design.

Display

Equipped with a 1.3-inch STN monochrome graphics display, the Alcatel OT-S120 has a resolution of 96 x 64 pixels. This results in a pixel density of approximately 89 ppi, providing clear visibility for basic navigation and text messaging. The screen-to-body ratio of ~11.7% reflects the emphasis on functionality over screen size, as typical of feature phones from this era.

Network and Connectivity

Memory

Being a basic feature phone, the Alcatel OT-S120 does not support any expansion via memory card slots. It provides a phonebook capacity for up to 255 entries and can store up to 20 entries each for dialed, received, and missed calls. This level of storage aligns with the primary purpose of the phone: calling and messaging.

Battery Life

One of the strengths of feature phones like the OT-S120 is their battery efficiency. This device is equipped with a removable Li-Ion 670 mAh battery, offering a stand-by time of up to 250 hours and a talk time of up to 5 hours. This longevity is a significant advantage for users who require a reliable phone without frequent charging.

Sound and Alerts

For sound alerts, the phone supports vibration and polyphonic ringtones (16 tones), covering the basic needs for call and message notifications. However, it lacks a 3.5mm headphone jack, which means users miss out on private or high-fidelity audio listening options.

Features

The OT-S120 is a classic feature phone focused on delivering essential capabilities:

• Messaging: SMS only, no MMS or email features.
• Games: Comes with one pre-loaded game, providing minimal entertainment.

Its simplicity is its charm, offering users a distraction-free device that emphasizes communication over peripheral functionalities.

Miscellaneous

The Alcatel OT-S120 lacks modern sensor technologies which are standard in today's smartphones. The device is straightforward, both in design and functionality, serving straightforward communication needs. Its Specific Absorption Rate (SAR) values are 1.26 W/kg (head) and 0.74 W/kg (body) for the USA and 1.10 W/kg (head) according to EU standards, staying within the safety limits of radiation exposure.

Conclusion

The Alcatel OT-S120 serves as a solid example of early feature phones targeted at providing fundamental communication features: calling and SMS messaging. Its durable battery life, uncomplicated user interface, and essential features make it suitable for individuals needing a basic mobile phone experience. While it may seem rudimentary by today's smartphones' standards, the OT-S120 represents a critical phase in mobile technology development, focusing on reliability and simplicity over the multifunctionality found in later devices. As of its discontinuation, it remains a nostalgic symbol of a transitional phase in cellular technology.