Ericsson S 868 Ultimate Guide to Features Pricing Pros & Cons

Introduction to Ericsson S 868

The Ericsson S 868 is a feature phone that was announced in 1998 and remains a symbol of the late 90s mobile technology. Released during a time of transition from analog to digital, it paved the way for many of the modern features we take for granted today. This article will delve into the intricate details of the Ericsson S 868, highlighting its specifications, unique features, and historical context in the evolution of mobile technology.

Network and Connectivity

The Ericsson S 868 operated on the GSM network, utilizing frequencies in the 900 and 1800 MHz bands. At a time when GSM was a relatively new technology, this allowed the S 868 to offer clear voice quality and robust connectivity. However, it did not support GPRS or EDGE, which means it lacked data services that became standard in later models.

Launch and Discontinuation

Announced in 1998, the Ericsson S 868 became available during an era when mobile phones were rapidly gaining popularity. Its production was eventually discontinued as newer technologies and design philosophies took over. The discontinuation marked the end of an era and the beginning of a more sophisticated mobile age.

Design and Body

The design of the Ericsson S 868 is a testament to the industrial design aesthetics of the late 1990s. With dimensions of 130 x 49 x 21 mm, it was relatively compact compared to earlier mobile phones, weighing in at 172 grams. The device utilized a Mini-SIM which was a standard at the time. Its construction was solid, embodying the durability users expected from mobile phones.

Display

The Ericsson S 868 featured an alphanumeric display with a resolution capable of showing 3 x 12 characters. The simplicity of the display was common for phones of this era, focusing primarily on functionality and ease of reading text rather than graphic-intensive interfaces.

Memory and Storage

Lacking expandable memory options, the Ericsson S 868 had no card slot. The internal storage was sufficient for its time, capable of storing a phonebook with 100 entries. This was quite generous, considering the device's primary use for calls and SMS.

Sound and Alerts

The Ericsson S 868 was equipped with monophonic ringtones and had a composer for users to create personalized tones. It did not feature a loudspeaker or a 3.5mm jack, aligning with the industry's focus on simplicity and basic telephony functions during its release period.

Communication Features

While it lacked modern connectivity features such as Bluetooth and WLAN, the Ericsson S 868 came with an infrared port, providing a wireless transfer method for compatible devices. This was a significant feature for the tech-savvy users of the time, making file sharing, albeit slow by today’s standards, possible wirelessly.

Utility and Software

The Ericsson S 868 came with basic utility features such as a clock and an alarm. Messaging capabilities were limited to SMS. With support for 24 languages, the phone could cater to a global market. It did not support games or Java applications, reflecting its primary role as a communication device.

Battery Life

Powered by a removable NiMH battery with a capacity of 800 mAh, the Ericsson S 868 offered up to 80 hours of standby time and 265 minutes of talk time. This was quite efficient, given the demands on the battery were limited to voice calls and text messages primarily.

Historical Context and Impact

The Ericsson S 868 stands out in the history of mobile phones, representing a blend of simplicity and functionality. It offers insight into the evolution of mobile technology, reflecting the technological capabilities and market demands of the late 1990s. As mobile technology advanced, it laid the groundwork for future developments, emerging as a transitional device that bridged older mobile technology with emerging innovations.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Ericsson S 868 remains an important chapter in the history of mobile telephony. Although its features and specifications may seem basic today, at its time, it provided its users with innovative connectivity solutions and a dependable means of communication. Its legacy is a reminder of the rapid technological advancements in the mobile industry, providing a foundation upon which modern smartphones have been built.