Ericsson GF 788 Comprehensive Review and Pricing

Design and Build Quality

The Ericsson GF 788, introduced in 1997, embodies a design that reflects the era's transition in mobile technology. With dimensions of 105 x 49 x 24 mm and weighing 135 grams, it was considered compact for its time, offering portability and a comfortable grip. The use of durable materials ensured a resilient build, making it stand out in a period dominated by emerging mobile brands.

Display

The GF 788 features an alphanumeric display, typical of the late 1990s. Although the display technology was basic, it effectively served the needs of users primarily focused on voice communication and basic messaging. The screen holds a resolution that supports one line of 10 characters, allowing users to navigate menus and messages with ease, albeit with limited visual clarity compared to modern devices.

Network and Connectivity

Operating on the GSM 900 network, the Ericsson GF 788 was designed to provide reliable communication across many urban areas. At the time, GSM technology was still gaining traction, and this device played a role in popularizing digital mobile communications. Lacking advanced features like GPRS or EDGE, the focus was strictly on voice and SMS capabilities, reflecting the limitations and technological focus of the era.

Battery Performance

The removable NiMH battery with a capacity of 550 mAh was a standard choice for mobile phones during the 1990s. The GF 788 offered up to 60 hours of standby time and approximately 180 minutes of talk time. While modest by today's standards, these figures represented a significant advantage for users needing reliable communication on the go, without frequent recharging.

Memory and Storage

In terms of memory, the GF 788 was equipped with the capacity to store up to 99 phonebook entries. This feature, although minimalistic, was sufficient for personal and professional contacts of the time. However, the absence of a card slot or expandable storage meant that users had to manage their contacts effectively within the available capacity.

Sound and Alert Features

The sound capabilities were basic, offering monophonic ringtones and an onboard composer for users to personalize their alert tones. The absence of a loudspeaker or a 3.5mm headphone jack highlights the device's primary focus on voice call functionality over multimedia or music playback.

Messaging

Messaging on the GF 788 was limited to SMS, but it was a revolutionary feature that changed personal communication habits. Despite the simplicity, this feature allowed users to send and receive text messages, forming the foundation for the messaging-dominated culture of mobile communications that blossomed in subsequent years.

Additional Features

The GF 788 included staple features such as an alarm clock and a basic clock display, supporting essential daily needs. Unlike modern devices, it lacked an assortment of games or internet-based applications. Its operating system accommodated a diverse linguistic audience, with support for up to 19 languages, catering to a global user base.

Launch and Discontinuation

Announced in 1997 and eventually discontinued, the GF 788 had a production lifespan characteristic of mobile devices from that era. It reflected a time when mobile phones began to transition from luxury items to common personal accessories. Its discontinuation marked the shift towards more feature-rich models as consumer expectations and technology rapidly advanced into the 2000s.

Conclusion

The Ericsson GF 788 stands as a testament to the evolutionary path of mobile technology. By focusing on robust basic features and reliable communication capabilities, it catered to a growing demand for mobile accessibility. Despite its eventual obsolescence and discontinuation, the GF 788 laid foundational principles that paved the way for future advancements in mobile telephony.