Price and specifications of LG GS500 Cookie Plus advantages, disadvantages, and a comprehensive explanation

Introduction to LG GS500 Cookie Plus

The LG GS500 Cookie Plus, released in April 2010, was part of a wave of feature phones that aimed to maximize affordability while offering a taste of smartphone-like capabilities. With its distinctive design and basic media functionalities, it catered to users seeking straightforward communication and multimedia options.

Design and Build

The LG GS500 Cookie Plus features dimensions of 107 x 52.5 x 11.5 mm and weighs 92.5 grams. Its lightweight construction makes it portable and easy to handle. The phone's design incorporates a mini-SIM slot, which was standard at the time of its release. The colorful variety of the handset, available in Black, White Silver, Imperial Purple, Baby Pink, Wine Red, and Brown, added a personal touch to its appearance.

Display

The device sports a 3.0-inch TFT resistive touchscreen with a resolution of 240 x 400 pixels. The screen can display up to 256K colors, providing vibrant and clear visuals. Although the display-to-body ratio is 45.6%, which is modest by today's standards, it offers sufficient screen real estate for basic applications and navigation.

Performance and Memory

The LG GS500 operates as a feature phone with essential functionalities and does not run on contemporary smartphone operating systems. It includes 30MB of internal storage, which can be expanded via a dedicated microSDHC card slot, allowing users to store more photos, music, and other data. The phonebook can store up to 1000 contacts with a photocall feature, and it records 40 dialed, 40 received, and 40 missed calls.

Camera Capabilities

The device houses a single 3.15 MP main camera capable of capturing images and recording video at 320p@12fps. While it lacks advanced imaging features such as flash or secondary lenses, the camera is adequate for basic photography needs, making it suitable for casual use.

Audio and Connectivity

The LG GS500 comes equipped with a loudspeaker and a 3.5mm audio jack, allowing users to listen to music and make calls using standard headphones. It supports Bluetooth 2.1 with A2DP for wireless connectivity. However, Wi-Fi and GPS facilities are absent, which was typical for phones in its category. The device includes a stereo FM radio with RDS, adding variety to its entertainment options. USB 2.0 support provides basic connectivity for data transfer and charging.

Messaging and Applications

The device supports multiple messaging formats, including SMS, EMS, MMS, and email, facilitating various forms of communication. It also includes a WAP 2.0/xHTML, HTML browser for basic internet access, although internet speeds are limited to HSPA 3.6/0.384 Mbps. Java MIDP 2.1 support allows for downloading and using Java-based applications and games, expanding its functionality beyond built-in software.

Battery Life

The phone is powered by a removable Li-Ion 900 mAh battery, sufficient for up to 400 hours of standby time and around 3 hours and 40 minutes of talk time. The removable nature of the battery is a convenient feature for users who might want an easy replacement or backup options.

Network and Connectivity

The LG GS500 Cookie Plus supports GSM and HSPA network technologies. It is compatible with 2G bands (GSM 850/900/1800/1900) and a 3G band (HSDPA 2100), making it functional in various network areas. Though now discontinued, at its launch, it was viable for regions with 3G coverage.

Market Position and Legacy

Priced at around 90 EUR at its time of release, the LG GS500 Cookie Plus served as a budget-friendly option for those seeking basic telecommunication services without the complexity or cost associated with smartphones. While discontinued, its simplicity and ease of use are fondly remembered by many users who preferred its tactile interface and straightforward functionality.

Conclusion

In summary, the LG GS500 Cookie Plus embodies a transitional phase in mobile phone technology, bridging the gap between basic feature phones and fully-fledged smartphones. Its emphasis on essential communication, media, and customization reflects a period when users sought practical and affordable technology.