Alcatel Pixi 3 35 Firefox Comprehensive Specs Pricing & Review

Introduction to Alcatel Pixi 3 (3.5) Firefox

The Alcatel Pixi 3 (3.5) Firefox is a smartphone that was released in 2015 as part of the Alcatel Pixi series. It's a compact and budget-friendly device equipped with the Firefox OS, designed to cater to the needs of users who seek basic smartphone functionality at an affordable price. Despite being discontinued, the Pixi 3 (3.5) remains noteworthy for its attempt to integrate the open-source Firefox OS into the smartphone market.

Design and Build

The Alcatel Pixi 3 (3.5) exhibits a practical and compact design, suitable for users who prefer a smaller device. It measures 112.2 x 62 x 11.9 mm and weighs just 98 grams, making it comfortable to hold and easy to carry. The phone is available in a sleek black color. The device supports either a single Mini-SIM or dual Mini-SIMs with dual standby, offering versatility in cellular connectivity. Its 3.5-inch display might not be the largest, but it caters to basic tasks and functions adequately for everyday use.

Display

The device features a 3.5-inch TFT display with a resolution of 320 x 480 pixels, resulting in a pixel density of approximately 165 ppi. While the display doesn’t boast high resolution or cutting-edge technology, it provides a functional screen for essential smartphone activities such as making calls, sending texts, and casual browsing.

Performance and Hardware

At the heart of the Alcatel Pixi 3 (3.5) is the Mediatek MT6572M chipset built on a 28nm process technology. It includes a dual-core 1.0 GHz Cortex-A7 CPU and a Mali-400 GPU. This configuration is designed for basic smartphone operations and provides a satisfactory performance level for the target user base. The device is equipped with 256MB of RAM and offers 512MB of internal storage, which can be expanded via a microSDHC card, allowing users to increase their media and application capacity.

Camera Features

Photography is supported by a 2 MP rear camera which may include an LED flash. This setup is basic and meets the essential needs for occasional photography. The front VGA camera is primarily for video calls rather than high-quality selfies. While the camera capabilities are modest, they are consistent with the device's budget-focused design.

Software and User Experience

The Pixi 3 (3.5) runs on Firefox OS 2.0, an open-source operating system developed by Mozilla. Firefox OS emphasizes web apps and HTML5 technology, providing a distinct experience compared to Android or iOS. The simplicity and openness of Firefox OS appeal to users who favor customization and open standards. Despite limited application availability compared to more established app stores, Firefox OS delivers basic functionalities efficiently.

Battery Life

The phone is powered by a removable Li-Ion 1300 mAh battery. According to specifications, it can provide up to 432 hours of standby time on 2G networks and up to 325 hours on 3G. Talk time is estimated at 7 hours on 2G and 6 hours 30 minutes on 3G. Music playback can last up to 40 hours, enhancing its utility for users who rely heavily on audio features. The removable battery adds flexibility, allowing users to carry spares if needed.

Connectivity and Network

The device supports GSM and HSPA network technologies and offers 2G and 3G bands suitable for areas with these network availabilities. Connectivity features include Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n and the ability to function as a hotspot, Bluetooth 3.0, GPS (optional), FM radio, and microUSB 2.0. However, NFC functionality is absent. These features support basic wireless communication and connectivity requirements.

Audio and Media Capabilities

For audio, the Pixi 3 (3.5) includes a loudspeaker and a 3.5mm headphone jack, facilitating music listening and call handling. The presence of an FM radio expands the media features, allowing users to enjoy radio broadcasts on-the-go.

Pricing and Market Position

Priced at approximately 40 EUR at its release, the Alcatel Pixi 3 (3.5) Firefox stands as an affordable option for individuals looking for a simple smartphone experience. It targets entry-level users or those in need of a secondary device for basic communication and web browsing.

Conclusion

The Alcatel Pixi 3 (3.5) Firefox serves as a noteworthy example of budget smartphones from the mid-2010s, particularly due to its integration with Firefox OS. While it lacks the advanced features of modern smartphones, it provides essential functionalities aimed at users who prioritize affordability and simplicity over cutting-edge specifications. Its compact size and straightforward user experience make it a viable option for the intended market segment.