BenQ EL71 Unveiling Features Pricing and More

Overview of BenQ EL71

The BenQ EL71 is a feature phone that was announced in February 2006 and later discontinued. It targets users who require a basic mobile phone with essential functionalities, yet it features an attractive design and build quality. The phone, weighing merely 94 grams and having a compact dimension of 90 x 46.3 x 16.5 mm, offers an ergonomic experience for its users.

Network Capabilities

The BenQ EL71 operates on GSM technology, supporting 2G bands including GSM 900, 1800, and 1900. It ensures reliable connectivity through the availability of GPRS and EDGE, both compatible with Class 10 standards. This means users could experience relatively decent data service for basic browsing, messaging, and media download/install operations typical of the mid-2000s era.

Display

Featuring a 2.0-inch TFT display, the BenQ EL71 supports a resolution of 240 x 320 pixels, offering around 200 pixels per inch density. This allows for vibrant and clear visibility of text and images. The screen's ability to depict 256K colors ensures a rich viewing experience, common among feature phones of its kind during that time.

Camera Functionality

The phone is equipped with a 1.3MP main camera. It's accompanied by an LED flash which enhances image quality in low-light conditions. Users can capture both photos and videos, a useful functionality for a feature phone from that timeframe. The camera boasts adequate capabilities for casual photography needs expected from basic phones.

Battery Life

The BenQ EL71 houses a removable Li-Ion 570 mAh battery. Its talk time lasts up to 4 hours, and standby extends up to 280 hours. This indicates a sufficient battery life for those accustomed to less frequent phone usage and are not heavily reliant on constant cellular activity.

Storage and Memory Specifications

In terms of storage, the device includes 16MB of internal memory which can be expanded using a microSD card. Such an expansion is facilitated through a dedicated slot designated specifically for additional storage needs. This allows users to save more contacts, messages, and media files. The phonebook can hold up to 1000 entries, each with 20 fields, while also supporting photo call functionalities.

Connectivity and Comms

Bluetooth version 1.2 with A2DP is supported, permitting wireless connectivity for headsets and other Bluetooth-enabled devices. While it lacks WLAN and GPS positioning, it features a USB 2.0 connection for charging and data transfer purposes. The absence of radio further highlights its focus on basic communication features.

Messaging and Browser

Messaging capabilities include SMS, EMS, and MMS, with compatibility for Email services. For web browsing, the device supports WAP 2.0/xHTML which was suitable for accessing basic websites during its release period. Java support (MIDP 2.0) in the phone allows users to run Java-based applications and games, providing additional entertainment options.

Sound and Entertainment

The BenQ EL71 does not include a loudspeaker or a 3.5mm headphone jack, but supports vibration and downloadable polyphonic/MP3 ringtones for alerts. Its simple audio setup aligns with the typical requirements of a feature phone released during that period.

Other Features

With no additional sensors listed, the BenQ EL71 caters to users’ fundamental communication needs rather than advanced smartphone functionalities. Its design and features reflect the era prior to the multi-faceted smartphone revolution, balancing basic usage with sufficient versatility for everyday tasks.

Conclusion

The BenQ EL71 serves as a testament to the transitional phase in mobile technology during the mid-2000s, offering just the right blend of functionality, simplicity, and durability. It suits users desiring an uncomplicated mobile experience without the need for the extensive capabilities found in modern smartphones. Its compact design, coupled with reliable network capabilities, makes it an attractive choice for technology enthusiasts and collectors interested in retro mobile devices.