Asus M310 Unveiling Features Pricing Pros & Cons

Overview of Asus M310

The Asus M310 is a feature phone that was launched by Asus in June 2006. Despite being discontinued, it holds a place in the history of mobile phones as an example of the technological transition period before the smartphone era began. This compact device was designed primarily for communication, with a focus on basic functionality rather than the advanced features found in modern smartphones.

Design and Build

The Asus M310 brings a simple yet functional design with dimensions of 98 x 48 x 21.5 mm and a weight of 110 grams. The device fits comfortably in the hand, and its small size made it portable and easy to carry. Constructed with a focus on durability, it features a robust body with a minimalist aesthetic, available in classic white and silver colors. The phone uses a Mini-SIM card and showcases a screen-to-body ratio of around 31.9%, typical for feature phones of its time.

Display

The M310 is equipped with a 2.2-inch TFT display, capable of showing 260K colors. Although the screen size is small by today's standards, it was considered ample for basic communication needs during its time. The display has a resolution of 320 x 240 pixels with an aspect ratio of 4:3, ensuring clarity for reading messages and viewing basic images.

Camera

This device features a single 2 MP main camera with autofocus, accompanied by an LED flash, allowing for basic photography. The camera, while modest, was a notable feature for a feature phone in 2006, providing users with the ability to capture photos and record simple videos.

Memory and Storage

In terms of memory, the Asus M310 comes with a phonebook capable of storing up to 1000 entries, and it logs the last 30 received, dialed, and missed calls. Internal storage sits at 35 MB, and it does not support additional memory expansion via a card slot, limiting its capacity for media storage to what can be managed within this space.

Battery Performance

The phone is powered by a removable Li-Ion 920 mAh battery. At full charge, the battery can support up to 250 hours of standby time and offer up to 5 hours of talk time, making it reliable for the basic usage it was designed for. The longevity of the battery was one of its advantages, especially since it catered to consumers who required a dependable phone without frequent recharging.

Network and Connectivity

The Asus M310 operates on GSM networks, supporting bands 900, 1800, and 1900. It has GPRS capabilities with Class 10 speeds, although it does not support EDGE or other more advanced data technologies. Connectivity options include Bluetooth for wireless file transfers, but it lacks WLAN and standard USB options, relying instead on a proprietary connector.

Audio and Sound

The device does not include a loudspeaker or a standard 3.5mm headphone jack, focusing instead on delivering audio through downloadable polyphonic and MP3 ringtones. This indicates a primary focus on call and alert functionalities rather than multimedia entertainment.

Software and Features

Built as a feature phone, the Asus M310 runs a proprietary operating system designed for simplicity and ease of use. It supports essential messaging capabilities including SMS, MMS, and Email. The phone features a basic WAP 1.2.1/2.0 browser for light web activities and supports Java (MIDP 2.0), enabling the use of simple applications and games. With limited pre-installed games, the M310 could also engage users seeking light entertainment.

Final Thoughts

While the Asus M310 may now be seen as a relic of the past, it serves as a reminder of the foundational technology that contributed to the evolution of mobile communications. Its compact design, reliable battery, and basic functionality made it suitable for users looking for straightforward communication tools. The M310 reflects an era where phones were primarily communication devices—a stark contrast to today's multifunctional smartphones.