Kyocera Milano C5120 Specs Pricing Pros & Cons Uncovered

Introduction to the Kyocera Milano C5120

The Kyocera Milano C5120, released in September 2011, was a distinctive smartphone during its time. It featured a unique combination of both touchscreen and QWERTY keyboard that catered to users who preferred physical keys. Designed for usability and entertainment, the device was an affordable choice for those transitioning from basic phones to the then-novel world of Android smartphones.

Network Technology

The Kyocera Milano C5120 operated on CDMA/EVDO technology. It supported 2G bands CDMA 800 / 1900 and 3G CDMA2000 1xEV-DO bands, enabling decent data speeds with EV-DO Rev.0 technology at rates of up to 153.2 Kbps. Although the network capabilities seem modest by today’s standards, they offered solid connectivity options for that era.

Design and Build

The Milano's dimensions were 105 x 61 x 17.1 mm, making it a compact device, easy to handle and store in one’s pocket. Weighing 158 grams, the phone was slightly on the heavier side, largely due to its slide-out QWERTY keyboard—a design choice appreciated by many during its time. Additionally, the device supported a Mini-SIM card and was available in a sleek black color, appealing to users looking for a professional and understated device.

Display Characteristics

The display of the Kyocera Milano was based on TFT technology, capable of showing 256K colors. With a screen size of 3.0 inches and a resolution of 240 x 320 pixels, the device ensured basic viewing needs were met. The pixel density of around 133 ppi, although minimal by today’s standards, provided adequate clarity for the average user of that period.

Performance and Platform

Running on Android 2.3 (Gingerbread), the Milano was supported by a Qualcomm MSM7627T chipset coupled with an 800 MHz CPU. While these specifications suggest modest performance, they were adequate for running basic applications and executing everyday tasks such as texting, making phone calls, and browsing the internet.

Memory and Storage

The device featured 512MB of internal storage and the same amount of RAM, ensuring it could maintain basic operations efficiently. For users needing additional storage, a dedicated microSDHC slot was provided, with a 2 GB card included to house additional media and applications.

Camera Capabilities

Photography on the Kyocera Milano was made possible through a 3.15 MP rear camera with autofocus capabilities. While it lacked many advanced features found in contemporary smartphones, it supported video recording, serving as a practical solution for basic photography and video needs.

Audio and Connectivity

The device came equipped with a speaker system and a 3.5mm jack, providing essential audio capabilities for music and call handling. Connectivity options included Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n with hotspot capability (charges may apply), Bluetooth 2.1 with A2DP and EDR, and a microUSB 2.0 port for charging and data transfers. However, it lacked FM radio capabilities—an omission some users might have felt keenly.

Positioning and Sensors

Navigation and positioning were made possible through GPS and A-GPS support, helping users accurately identify their location or navigate using maps. The phone also housed several essential sensors, including an accelerometer, proximity sensor, and compass, which added to its functionality despite its budget-friendly positioning.

Battery Life

Powering the Kyocera Milano C5120 was a removable Li-Ion 1490 mAh battery. This battery facilitated a talk time of up to 7 hours and 40 minutes, reflecting the phone’s energy efficiency and suitability for extended usage sessions without constant recharging.

Conclusion

While the Kyocera Milano C5120 may not measure up to modern-day smartphones, at its time of release, it provided a bridge between traditional mobile phones and the expanding world of smart devices. Its combination of physical QWERTY and capacitive touch screen appealed to a broad user base. Coupled with its reasonable price point, it served as an introductory smartphone, drawing in users eager to embrace smart technology while retaining familiar tactile features.