Celkon C356 Comprehensive Review and Value Insights

Overview of Celkon C356

The Celkon C356 is a straightforward feature phone, released in February 2013. Though it has been discontinued, it remains a testament to a time when simplicity in mobile phones was appreciated. The device was part of the era when feature phones were designed to bring essential mobile phone functions into the hands of users without the complexity or the cost of smartphones.

Design and Build

The design of Celkon C356 is functional, aimed at providing basic mobile communication capabilities. Although specific dimensions and weight are not documented, the phone adopts a compact and portable form factor typical of feature phones, making it easy to carry around. The Celkon C356 supports dual SIM functionality, using Mini-SIM cards, enhancing usability for users who handle multiple numbers.

Display

The Celkon C356 is equipped with a 1.8-inch TFT display, which offers a resolution of 176 x 220 pixels resulting in a pixel density of approximately 157 ppi. While this may seem modest, it is adequate for the phone's primary functions such as dialing numbers and reading text messages. The display is not designed for high-definition media but suits the essential requirements of a feature phone.

Camera and Photography

This device comes with a basic 0.3 MP camera. While it might not rival modern smartphone cameras, its inclusion allowed users at the time to capture simple photographs when needed. It lacks video recording capabilities, focusing solely on static images.

Battery Life

The Celkon C356 is powered by a removable Li-Ion 1100 mAh battery. This battery capacity is decent, considering the low power requirements of the phone. Users could experience up to 150 hours of standby time and approximately 3 hours and 20 minutes of talk time, making it a reliable companion for extended use without frequent recharging.

Storage and Memory

Storage options on the Celkon C356 include a dedicated microSDHC card slot, offering users the ability to expand storage based on necessity. The phone's internal storage specifics and RAM are unspecified, typical for feature phones of this era, focusing instead on providing basic phonebook and call record capabilities.

Network and Connectivity

This device operates on GSM networks with support for GSM 900 and 1800 bands in both SIM slots. Internet connectivity features like GPRS or EDGE are not supported, showing that the phone was not designed for internet browsing. However, it does include Bluetooth connectivity for simple file transfers and includes an FM radio, catering to entertainment needs.

Software and Features

Running on a feature phone operating system, the Celkon C356 offers basic features such as SMS messaging and a few built-in games. Java applications are not supported, which limits the device to its pre-installed functions. It lacks advanced sensors or smart capabilities found in modern phones.

Audio and Media

The Celkon C356 includes a loudspeaker for basic audio output, allowing for decent call quality and enjoyment of music through radio. Due to its position as a feature phone, the media capabilities are centered around audio rather than video or advanced multimedia functions.

Pricing and Availability

The Celkon C356 was introduced to the market at an affordable price of about 10 EUR, making it budget-friendly for a wide range of users, especially in emerging markets. However, as it has been discontinued, it is primarily available through secondhand markets or among distributors who still hold inventory.

Conclusion

The Celkon C356 remains a pertinent example of feature phone technology from the early 2010s. With its basic functionality and affordable pricing, it served as a crucial communication tool for users needing more from their phones than just calls and texts. Despite its discontinuation, it embodies a simplicity that was once sought after in the mobile phone market.