LG U8550 InDepth Specs Pricing Pros & Cons

Design and Build

The LG U8550 comes with a compact design, featuring dimensions of 90 x 55 x 24.7 mm (3.54 x 2.17 x 0.97 in) and weighing 135 g (4.76 oz), making it a portable device fitting comfortably in the hand. The phone possesses a classic bar style with a mini-SIM slot, which is standard for mobile phones from its era.

Display

The device sports a TFT display supporting 256K colors, providing decent color representation for its time. The screen measures 2.2 inches with a screen-to-body ratio of approximately 31.5%, and displays at a resolution of 220 x 220 pixels (~141 ppi density), allowing for clear and crisp visuals for the media content and user interface that's characteristic of feature phones.

Camera and Photography

In terms of photography, the LG U8550 is equipped with a single rear camera of 1.3 MP, supported by an LED flash to enhance photo capture in low light conditions. Additionally, it offers a VGA videocall camera at the front, making it capable of basic photo and video functionalities. Video recording is available, though limited by the sensor’s capabilities.

Memory and Storage

The phone hosts an internal memory of 20MB, which was typical for feature phones at the time. For users needing more storage, the device includes a dedicated microSD slot, allowing for expanded memory options, beneficial for storing photos, music, and other data.

Battery Life

The LG U8550 features a removable Li-Ion battery with a capacity of 1440 mAh. This battery offers a standby time of up to 220 hours. The removable aspect of the battery provides convenience in terms of replacability, a feature appreciated by long-term users.

Network and Connectivity

In network terms, the LG U8550 supports GSM / UMTS technology with 2G bands covering GSM 900 / 1800 / 1900 and 3G bands on UMTS 2100. Users enjoy internet access at speeds of up to 384 kbps, a standard mobile internet speed for early 3G devices. In additions, it supports Bluetooth for wireless connectivity, although it lacks WLAN, GPS positioning, and radio capabilities.

Sound and Multimedia

The phone is equipped with stereo speakers providing clear sound output. It supports downloadable polyphonic, MP3, and AAC ringtones. However, it lacks a 3.5mm headphone jack, which may necessitate alternate solutions for private listening.

Software and Features

Functioning as a feature phone, the LG U8550 offers basic software operations such as SMS, MMS, and Email messaging. The browser is based on WAP 2.0/xHTML standards, enabling basic internet browsing. The phone also provides game functionality, with both pre-installed and downloadable options, and supports Java MIDP 2.0 applications, expanding the user's entertainment choices.

Additional Features

Additional noteworthy elements of the LG U8550 include a selection of colors—Orange, Green, and Silver—providing personal style options. It offers essential phonebook and call record features, allowing the storage of personal contacts and logging of recent calls for efficient communication management.

Conclusion

Overall, LG's U8550 marks an artifact from the mid-2000s era of mobile communication with its blend of functionality, portability, and design. It provides basic multimedia, communication, and connectivity features suited for users in need of essential mobile functions without the complexity of contemporary smartphones.