Price and specifications of Bird S296+ advantages, disadvantages, and a comprehensive explanation

Network Capabilities

The Bird S296+ is equipped with basic network technology, supporting GSM connectivity. Primarily designed for use in GSM 900 and 1800 frequency bands, this phone does not support GPRS or EDGE technologies, making it a device primarily suited for basic voice communication and SMS. The absence of modern data transmission technologies reflects its focus on essential functionalities typical of feature phones introduced in 2007.

Launch and Status

The Bird S296+ was initially announced in 2007, marking its entry into the mobile phone market. As a device that fits into the feature phone category, it was discontinued after serving its lifecycle. The discontinuation status is typical for feature phones with limited advanced technologies and functionalities, especially as smartphones began dominating the market post-launch.

Body and Design

This device features a compact and lightweight design with dimensions of 105 x 45 x 15.7 mm and a weight of just 75 grams. The lightweight nature of the phone makes it highly portable and easy to carry. It accommodates a Mini-SIM, maintaining the standards of mobile phones from its era. The portable build and straightforward design are characteristics that appeal to users seeking simplicity and functionality.

Display Features

The Bird S296+ comes with a monochrome graphic display, measuring 1.4 inches with a resolution of 101 x 64 pixels. Given the approximately 12.1% screen-to-body ratio and 85 ppi density, the display is designed to provide the necessary interface for basic operations without the distractions of color or high-resolution graphics. This simplicity in display technology contributes to its extended battery life and ease of use.

Memory and Storage Capabilities

In terms of memory, the Bird S296+ does not feature a card slot for expandable storage. It includes a basic phonebook, allowing users to store contacts as per the phone’s capacity, alongside maintaining call records for up to 20 dialed, received, and missed calls each. The limited storage reflects the phone’s feature-focused design, emphasizing essential communication operations over multimedia content storage.

Camera Specifications

The Bird S296+ does not feature a camera, which was a common omission in certain feature phones designed during the mid-2000s. This absence highlights its focus on core functionalities of calling and texting without the distractions or additional power consumption associated with camera usage.

Sound and Alert Features

This device is equipped with a loudspeaker for audio output. The alert system includes vibration and downloadable polyphonic ringtones, offering users options in call and message notifications. Notably, the absence of a 3.5mm jack aligns with its basic feature set, focusing solely on its primary purposes of communication rather than entertainment through music or other audio forms.

Communications and Connectivity

The Bird S296+ lacks modern connectivity features such as WLAN, Bluetooth, GPS, Radio, and USB, which are typical in present-day devices. The minimal communications and connectivity options reinforce the phone’s design philosophy centered around core telephony and messaging capabilities.

Additional Features

Additional features of the Bird S296+ include basic SMS for text messaging and a few simple games preinstalled on the device. The absence of sensors, a web browser, and Java-based applications underscore its limited technological scope, adhering strictly to essential mobile phone operations without enhancements typical of later smartphone models.

Battery Life and Performance

The device comes with a removable Li-Ion 500 mAh battery, offering a stand-by time of up to 140 hours and a talk time of up to 2 hours. This battery performance is relatively standard amongst feature phones, ensuring long-lasting back-up for prolonged usability in voice and text communications, owing to the absence of energy-draining features found in smartphones.

Miscellaneous Features

Available in black and grey color options, the Bird S296+ showcases a simple and functional design. These colors provide a classic and professional look, appealing to users who favor minimalistic aesthetics. The phone's straightforward design and ease of use align with user preferences for reliability and simplicity.