Maxon MXC180 Ultimate Guide to Specs Features and Pricing

Overview of Maxon MX-C180

The Maxon MX-C180 is a classic feature phone that was announced in the fourth quarter of 2003. Despite being discontinued, it remains a representation of early 2000s mobile technology. The MX-C180 is designed for basic connectivity and communication, catering to users who require straightforward functionality without the complexities of modern smartphones.

Network Capabilities

The phone operates on GSM technology, supporting 2G bands at GSM 900 and 1800 frequencies. It provides GPRS (General Packet Radio Service) for internet connectivity, though EDGE support is absent. In an era before widespread mobile internet, these capabilities were adequate for accessing simple web content and basic online services.

Launch and Market Status

Announced in the last quarter of 2003, the Maxon MX-C180 was eventually discontinued, typical of feature phones as they made way for more advanced mobile technology. At the time of its release, the MX-C180 offered a solid range of features for a consumer market not yet saturated with smartphones.

Design and Build

With dimensions of 84 x 43.7 x 20.8 mm and a weight of just 85 grams, the MX-C180 is compact and lightweight. It is designed to be portable and easy to use, fitting comfortably in the user's hand or pocket. The phone supports a Mini-SIM card, the standard at the time, ensuring compatibility with the major network operators.

Display Features

The MX-C180 is equipped with a TFT display capable of showing 65K colors. Although small by today's standards, its 128 x 160-pixel resolution was typical for devices of its class during its release. The display size is not specified, but it serves its primary purpose for basic phone functions like calling, messaging, and simple graphical display.

Memory and Storage

Maxon designed this phone with practicality in mind rather than extended storage and high memory capabilities. It does not include a card slot for expanded storage, reflecting the usage patterns of its target consumers — primarily, calling and texting. The phone’s internal memory supports a phonebook capacity of 250 contacts (with 11 fields each), along with call records of 30 received, dialed, and missed calls.

Camera

The phone features a VGA main camera, which is part of its basic feature set. With 0.3 megapixels, it provides basic photographic functions primarily useful for casual captures, although it does not support video recording. This was adequate for users at the time who valued having a camera on their phone, even if the quality was limited.

Audio and Sound

The MX-C180 supports polyphonic ringtones and vibration alerts, although it lacks a loudspeaker and a 3.5mm audio jack. Audio capabilities are therefore limited, focusing on the basics of call and alert functionality without catering to media playback or audio enhancement.

Communication Features

Communications on the MX-C180 are handled via SMS, EMS, MMS, and Email. Internet services are accessible using a WAP 2.0/xHTML browser, which aligns with the limited internet and multimedia capabilities of its time. While it lacks Bluetooth, radio, and direct USB connectivity, it still provided the necessary tools for essential mobile communication.

Battery Performance

Powered by a removable Lithium-Ion battery, the MX-C180 offers a standby time of up to 75 hours and a talk time of up to 6 hours. This battery performance was in line with expectation for devices in this category, ensuring users remained connected over reasonable periods without frequent recharging.

Recreational Features and Additional Capabilities

Though limited, the MX-C180 supports Java applications, allowing for basic games and additional utilities. This added an element of entertainment and customization to the device, holding appeal for users who enjoyed light recreational usage beyond telephony.

Conclusion

The Maxon MX-C180 serves as an illustration of the mobile phones that preceded smartphones, highlighting essential functions necessary at the time. Its compact design, reliable battery life, and fundamental internet access encapsulate a device shaped for simplicity in communication, catering to users who preferred straightforward mobile devices. As a discontinued model, it finds its place in the history of mobile technology, echoing the basic yet functional offerings of early 2000s mobile tech.