HTC P3600 Comprehensive Review on Specs Price Pros & Cons

Introduction to HTC P3600

The HTC P3600, released in 2006, is an integral part of the lineage of pioneering smartphones that set the stage for the modern mobile devices we use today. Known for its versatile functionality and solid build, it combined elements of a phone, PDA, and a multimedia device into one compact form. Below, we dive into the comprehensive details of the HTC P3600 and explore its features, specifications, and the technological impact it had at the time.

Design and Build Quality

The dimensions of the HTC P3600 are 108 x 58.2 x 18.4 mm and it weighs around 150 grams. Its compact size was typical for a PDA at the time, fitting comfortably in the user's hand. The physical structure was designed to be sturdy, featuring a tactile resistive touchscreen that could display 65K colors. The screen size of 2.8 inches was considered adequate for the mobile interfaces of its era.

Connectivity and Network

In terms of network connectivity, the HTC P3600 was equipped with both 2G and 3G capabilities. It supported GSM bands of 850/900/1800/1900 and HSDPA bands of 2100, allowing users to stay connected across different geographical regions. The device featured HSPA with a speed of up to 1.8 Mbps, which was quite groundbreaking back then, ensuring quicker data transfer and internet browsing.

Display Features

One of the core features was its 2.8-inch TFT resistive touchscreen with a resolution of 240 x 320 pixels. While it pales in comparison to today's high-definition touchscreens, it provided sufficient clarity and responsiveness for the device’s functionalities. Offering a screen-to-body ratio of approximately 38.6%, the display supported a 4:3 aspect ratio, typical for devices of its class.

Operating System and Processing Power

The HTC P3600 ran on Microsoft Windows Mobile 5.0 PocketPC, offering a familiar interface for users accustomed to Windows OS. It was powered by a Samsung SC3 2442A processor clocked at 400 MHz, providing a competitive performance standard for its time. The combination of hardware and software delivered a smooth user experience relative to the features available during that period.

Memory and Storage

The device came with 64MB of RAM and 128MB of internal ROM storage, which was typical for mobile devices released during that era. To accommodate more data, users could expand the storage via a miniSD card slot. The inclusion of expandable memory was a vital feature for users needing extra space for applications and media files.

Camera Functionality

Equipped with a 2 MP main camera, the HTC P3600 was capable of taking simple photos and videos. Although basic by current standards, this camera met the needs of casual photography enthusiasts at the time. Additionally, the device featured a front VGA camera, intended primarily for video calls, which was an innovative inclusion during the mid-2000s.

Audio and Sound Features

The sound system in the HTC P3600 included a loudspeaker for playing media and receiving calls without the need for earphones. It supported vibration, polyphonic, and MP3 ringtones, providing users with a variety of alert options. However, it did not include a 3.5mm headphone jack, which indicated early signs of the trend towards wireless audio that continues today.

Communication Tools

For wireless connectivity, the device supported Wi-Fi 802.11b/g, Bluetooth 2.0 with A2DP, and an Infrared port, which provided versatile options for data transfer and communication. The inclusion of GPS was dependent on firmware updates, enhancing navigation capabilities for those who updated their devices.

Battery Performance

The HTC P3600 housed a removable Li-Ion 1500 mAh battery. It offered a standby time of up to 250 hours and a talk time of up to 5 hours, sufficient for day-long usage without frequent charging interruptions.

Market Impact and Reception

Upon its release, the HTC P3600 was met with positive reviews for its wide array of features and robust performance wrapped up in a compact and efficient design. It was seen as a versatile device that appealed to both the business and general consumer markets. Priced at approximately 370 EUR, it was considered a premium device.

Conclusion

The HTC P3600 remains a significant device in the history of smartphones, embodying the transition from PDAs to modern smartphones. Its comprehensive capabilities in connectivity, multimedia, and productivity set a benchmark for subsequent devices. The P3600 not only exemplified the technological aspirations of its time but also helped pave the way for the mobile technology advancements that followed.