Asus V55 Unveiling Specs Prices Pros & Cons

Introduction to Asus V55

The Asus V55 is a device that takes us back to a simpler time in the evolution of mobile technology. Released in the third quarter of 2005, and now discontinued, it represents an era when phones were primarily used for calling and messaging. This feature phone captures the charm of early 2000s mobile design with its compact and minimalist form.

Design and Build

With dimensions of 92 x 44 x 18 mm and a weight of just 90 g, the Asus V55 is extremely compact and lightweight. Its small size makes it easy to fit into any pocket, offering great portability. The phone makes use of a Mini-SIM card, which was the standard at the time. Available in black and blue colors, it caters to a subtle yet professional look. This device is a throwback to an era where simplicity was key, with no focus on flashy aesthetics.

Display

The Asus V55 features a CSTN display with 65K colors, which was common in its class during that time. The display size is 1.5 inches, with a screen-to-body ratio of around 17.9%. The resolution of 128 x 128 pixels ensures basic readability, while the ~121 ppi pixel density delivers adequate clarity for feature phone tasks.

Camera Features

Equipped with a VGA main camera, the Asus V55 allows for basic photography, although it is not designed for high-quality image capture. The camera offers video recording capabilities, which—despite basic—try to meet essential user needs. Of course, there is no front-facing camera, as this was not a standard feature for devices in this category at the time.

Network and Connectivity

The network support for the Asus V55 includes GSM bands of 900/1800/1900 MHz, which suits the needs of voice communication and messaging. It supports GPRS class 10 for data connectivity, but lacks EDGE for faster data speeds. Other connectivity features such as Bluetooth, WLAN, and GPS are not present, which again reflects the focus on core functionality rather than extensive connectivity options.

Sound and Alerts

The sound capabilities of the Asus V55 are directed towards fundamental use. It does not include a loudspeaker, which limits audio output to through its limited features. The alert system is based on vibration and downloadable polyphonic ringtones. A 3.5mm audio jack is absent, aligning with the trend of using dedicated audio connectors or integrated audio through handset speakers in feature phones of that period.

Memory and Storage

When it comes to memory, the Asus V55 does not support a card slot, hence limiting expansion options. The built-in phonebook can store up to 255 entries—adequate for basic personal use. Call records can hold details of the past 20 received, dialed, and missed calls, meeting basic telephony needs.

Battery Life

Powered by a removable Li-Ion 700 mAh battery, the Asus V55 provides decent battery performance for a feature phone. It offers a standby time of up to 200 hours and a talk time of up to 5 hours. This battery capacity is modest by modern standards but aligns well with the reduced power demands of devices of this nature and era.

Software and Features

Running on a proprietary OS typical of the feature phone category, the Asus V55 provides very basic software features. It supports SMS and MMS messaging, and includes a WAP 1.2.1/2.0 browser for simple internet access—albeit very limited by today’s standards. Although lacking advanced apps, it includes a selection of games for entertainment and basic productivity. Java support is not included, which means compatibility with some third-party applications is limited.

Conclusion

The Asus V55 is a quintessential feature phone that highlights the norms and expectations of mobile technology from a bygone era. Its focus on core functionalities such as voice calling and messaging, combined with a compact design, symbolizes the minimalist approach of mobile devices before the smartphone revolution. While it may not impress in terms of features by today’s standards, the Asus V55 provides a nostalgic glimpse into the past and caters to those seeking a simplistic, distraction-free mobile experience.