Ericsson T39 Exploring Features Pricing Pros & Cons

Introduction to Ericsson T39

The release of the Ericsson T39 marked an important milestone in the early 2000s mobile phone industry. Known for its sophistication at the time, the T39 combined compact design with cutting-edge technology that appealed to professional users and tech enthusiasts alike. Despite its discontinuation, its influence on mobile communication and device design is still appreciated by mobile technology historians.

Design and Build Quality

The design of the Ericsson T39 was a notable departure from the bulky phones commonly seen in its era. With dimensions of 96 x 50 x 18 mm and weighing only 86 grams, the T39 was remarkably compact and lightweight, easily fitting in a pocket without causing discomfort. Its minimalist design was complemented by the choice of three elegant colors: Classic Blue, Icecap Blue, and Rose White, appealing to both genders and a variety of tastes.

Display and User Interface

The T39 featured a grayscale graphic display with a resolution of 101 x 54 pixels. Though modest by today’s standards, this display was typical for early 2000s phones. It displayed four lines of text, which was sufficient for basic applications such as texting and viewing contact information. The user interface was designed to be intuitive, with large, easy-to-press buttons that enhanced navigation.

Network Capabilities

The Ericsson T39 was equipped with impressive network capabilities for its time. Supporting GSM 900/1800/1900 bands, it allowed for considerable roaming ability internationally. Notably, it supported GPRS for data transfer, which was a key factor in providing internet connectivity to mobile users, albeit at limited speeds.

Connectivity Features

Among the T39’s standout features was its Bluetooth functionality (version 1.0b). It was one of the first mobile phones to include Bluetooth, setting a precedent for wireless connectivity in mobile devices. Additionally, it had an infrared port, which allowed for data exchange between compatible devices. Although it lacked WiFi and USB connectivity, the infrared and Bluetooth features sufficed for most data needs of that era.

Battery Performance

The T39 boasted exceptional battery performance, thanks in part to its removable NiMH battery. Depending on usage, it could last up to 300 hours in stand-by mode or up to 11 hours of talk time. There was also a high capacity battery version, which extended stand-by time up to an impressive 29 days and talk time up to 25 hours, ensuring users stayed connected longer between charges.

Communication and Messaging

Primarily a communication device, the T39 supported SMS and Email, enabling users to stay connected through text-based messages even without the internet’s ubiquitous presence. It also supported WAP 1.2.1 browser, a groundbreaking feature that allowed very basic web browsing.

Call Management and Address Book

The phonebook in T39 could hold up to 510 contacts, a significant volume for the time, making it suitable for professional users who needed to manage extensive networks. It also kept a record of the last 10 dialed, received, and missed calls, aiding users in communication management.

Sound and Alert Features

The T39 included customizable alert types, with vibration and downloadable monophonic ringtones. The option to download ringtones was particularly appealing, allowing users to personalize their devices beyond the pre-installed tones. Despite its lack of a loudspeaker and 3.5mm jack, the phone provided satisfactory sound options for its time.

Games and Entertainment

While not primarily an entertainment device, the T39 included some built-in games. Although simplistic, they offered entertainment to users during downtime. The absence of Java support limited gaming capabilities, but this was a common constraint for mobile phones at that time.

Market Impact and Legacy

When it was introduced, the Ericsson T39 was seen as a device ahead of its time. It pushed the boundaries in terms of design, network capabilities, and connectivity — particularly its inclusion of Bluetooth technology. Despite being discontinued, its innovations laid the groundwork for future mobile phone developments, influencing design and functionality trends that continue to this day.

Conclusion

The Ericsson T39 remains an iconic device in the history of mobile phones. Its combination of stylish design, innovative technology, and reliable performance made it a standout in the early 2000s. The T39 not only met the needs of its contemporary users but also paved the way for future developments in mobile technology. Although primitive by today's standards, its legacy continues to be an important reference point in the evolution of mobile communication.