Overview

The Icemobile Quattro, released in November 2012, represents a class of feature phones that catered to a section of users who preferred basic and reliable communication devices. With its discontinued status, the Quattro remains a device of interest for technology enthusiasts keen on exploring the evolution of mobile phones during the early 2010s.

Design and Build

The Icemobile Quattro features a compact design with dimensions of 104 x 54 x 10.3 mm. Its lightweight build was designed for users seeking a practical and portable device. The phone comes with a QWERTY keyboard, making it user-friendly for text-heavy tasks such as messaging and emails. It supports Dual SIM functionality (Mini-SIM), which was a notable feature for users needing to manage multiple phone lines or separate personal and professional communications.

Display

The display of the Icemobile Quattro is a 2.3-inch TFT screen, offering a resolution of 320 x 240 pixels. With a 4:3 ratio and approximately 174 ppi pixel density, the screen was adequate for basic phone functions, offering users clear and legible text. The 29.2% screen-to-body ratio highlights its functionality-focused design, prioritizing efficient use of space alongside the physical QWERTY keyboard.

Performance and Memory

The Quattro operates as a feature phone, meaning it is designed for basic tasks such as calling, texting, and organizing. It comes with a mere 8MB of RAM, a specification that limits the phone to very basic operations. The presence of a dedicated microSDHC card slot offers expandable storage, essential for users to store additional contacts, messages, or media, given its limited internal memory.

Camera Functionality

Photography is supported by a basic 0.3MP camera, which offers limited functionality in terms of picture quality and detail. While it allows for basic image and video capture, expectations regarding image clarity should be modest, appropriately aligning with the device's primary role as a communication tool.

Network and Connectivity

Supporting GSM technology, the Quattro is equipped for 2G bands (GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900), with a GPRS class 10 for basic data transfer services. Connectivity is further supported via Bluetooth, allowing for wireless communication with other compatible devices. While it does not come with WLAN, NFC, or GPS positioning, its features are adequate for users seeking essential communication tools. The device also supports a miniUSB interface, further enhancing its connectivity options.

Battery Life and Efficiency

The device houses a removable Li-Ion 1500 mAh battery, marketed as model BP-4L. It is capable of supporting up to 220 hours of standby and up to 8 hours of talk time. These specifications ensure that the Quattro can serve users effectively throughout the day without frequent recharging, emphasizing its role as a reliable communication tool.

Additional Features

The Icemobile Quattro incorporates several other features, making it a well-rounded device for its time. These include SMS and MMS messaging capabilities, stereo FM radio for entertainment and news, loudspeaker functionality for calls and media, and a 3.5mm audio jack for personal listening experiences. This range of features adds to its value as a feature phone.

Color Options and Aesthetic Appeal

The Icemobile Quattro was marketed in various colors, including White, Black, Silver, Blue, and Red. These options provided consumers with the ability to choose a device that suited their personal style, enhancing the device’s appeal beyond its basic operational features.

Conclusion

The Icemobile Quattro embodies the attributes of a traditional feature phone, combining essential communication functionalities with basic entertainment and organizational tools. While it lacks the capabilities of modern smartphones, it serves as a reminder of the earlier stages of mobile phone evolution where functionality and user-friendly design were paramount. This device remains of historical interest to technology enthusiasts and collectors who appreciate the diversity and rapid advancement in mobile technology.