Ericsson R320 Comprehensive Review of Specs Pricing & Features

Overview of the Ericsson R320

The Ericsson R320, announced in 2000, was a feature phone that marked a notable phase in the evolution of mobile technology. The device, now discontinued, was among the pioneers in Ericsson's line-up during a period when mobile phones were undergoing rapid transformation. Positioned as a robust and reliable mobile phone, the R320 catered to the needs of professionals and technology enthusiasts who demanded more from their devices.

Design and Build

The design of the Ericsson R320 was an integral part of its appeal. It was relatively compact for its time, with dimensions of 130 x 51 x 15 mm, and it weighed approximately 99 grams. The phone was built with a sturdy body, allowing it to withstand the rigors of daily usage. Available in colors like Atlantic Blue, Rock Red, and Stone Purple, the R320 offered a stylish alternative to the typical monochrome phones of its era. The removable Mini-SIM card slot was typical for GSM phones of that time, emphasizing its role as a reliable communication tool.

Display Features

The Ericsson R320 featured a monochrome graphic display that was modest by today’s standards, displaying information across five lines. This type of display was common in early 2000s mobile phones, providing clear, crisp text that was easy to read under various lighting conditions. The lack of a color screen meant that the phone’s battery life was not heavily taxed, which contributed positively to the overall durability and longevity of the device.

Memory and Storage

The device did not support expandable memory, as there was no card slot available. However, it did come with an internal phonebook capable of storing 99 entries, which was sufficient for most users at the time. In addition, the call records feature enabled tracking of the last 30 received, dialed, and missed calls, allowing users to easily maintain and access call logs without needing additional memory.

Sound and Alerts

The sound capabilities of the Ericsson R320 were straightforward, featuring monophonic ringtones, vibration alerts, and a lack of a loudspeaker or a 3.5mm jack. The simplicity in audio features was characteristic of the early 2000s mobile phones, serving basic communication needs without focusing on multimedia capabilities.

Connectivity

Despite its position in the GSM market, the Ericsson R320 did not support GPRS or EDGE for data transfer, but it did feature an infrared port, enabling rudimentary data exchange with compatible devices. The absence of modern connectivity options like WLAN or Bluetooth is a testament to the technological constraints and targeted usability of the time, focusing primarily on voice communication. There was no in-built capability for positioning systems or USB connectivity, further emphasizing its role as a communication device.

Communication and Messaging

The Ericsson R320 supported SMS messaging, which was still the prevailing form of text communication before the advent of more robust mobile internet technologies. It also featured a WAP browser, an early innovation for accessing a limited selection of internet services. Additional functionalities like an in-built clock, alarm, and games made the phone a handy accessory for everyday life, beyond just communication. The R320 was not Java-enabled, restricting application development and enhancing the simplicity and focus on core features.

Battery Life

The phone’s removable NiMH battery provided a standby time of up to 104 hours and a talk time of up to 4.5 hours. These battery specifications were quite competitive for its time, offering users a reliable means of communication without frequent recharging, which was ideal for business users and professionals constantly on the move. The choice of a removable battery allowed users to carry spare batteries, ensuring prolonged usage without access to charging facilities.

Conclusion

The Ericsson R320 stood out as a reliable and robust communication tool during the early 2000s. With its emphasis on durability, basic yet essential functionality, and iconic design, it contributed significantly to Ericsson’s reputation in the mobile phone market. Although modern smartphones outshine the R320 in terms of functionality and features, this device represents a critical milestone in mobile communication history, reflecting the technological and design priorities of its era.