Maxwest Android 320 Unveiling Specs Price & ProsCons

Overview of Maxwest Android 320

The Maxwest Android 320 is a budget-friendly smartphone that was announced in September 2013 and released in October 2013. It has since been discontinued but remains an interesting device for those exploring the evolution of Android phones over the years. With its basic feature set and uncomplicated design, it was targeted at users looking for essential smartphone functions at an affordable price.

Network Capabilities

The Maxwest Android 320 is equipped with GSM technology and supports 2G bands (GSM 850/900/1800/1900 for both SIM 1 and SIM 2), making it capable of handling basic mobile networks but not the faster 3G or 4G networks. This can limit its usability in areas where older network technology has been phased out. The device also supports Class 12 GPRS and EDGE, allowing for basic data services.

Launch Details

The phone was launched in September 2013 and became available in October 2013. The device has now been discontinued, reflecting the rapid evolution and turnover of technology in the mobile phone market.

Build and Design

The Android 320 features dimensions of 115 x 62.4 x 13.4 mm and weighs approximately 105 grams. This makes it lightweight and compact, suitable for one-handed usage. The phone is equipped with a dual SIM slot using Mini-SIM format, allowing users the flexibility of having two numbers or plans on a single device.

Display Features

The display of the Maxwest Android 320 is a 3.5-inch TFT screen with 256K colors, offering a modest yet colorful viewing experience. The resolution stands at 320 x 480 pixels with a 3:2 aspect ratio, resulting in a pixel density of approximately 165 ppi. While not high definition by modern standards, it was adequate for text-based applications and light media use at the time of its release.

Operating System and Performance

Running on Android 4.0 (Ice Cream Sandwich), the Maxwest Android 320 offers basic Android smartphone functionalities. It is powered by a 1.0 GHz processor, which, while not suited for intensive tasks, handles simple tasks and applications adequately. The device includes sensors like an accelerometer to enhance the user experience by providing features like automatic screen rotation.

Memory and Storage

The phone comes with 512MB of internal storage, partnered with 256MB of RAM. This amount of memory is basic and limits the number of applications that can be installed. However, it does include a microSDHC card slot for expandable storage, allowing users to keep more media files or apps on the device by adding up to an additional specified limit through an external memory card.

Camera Specifications

On the camera front, the Maxwest Android 320 is equipped with a single 2 MP camera capable of recording video at 480p@30fps. While basic by modern standards, this was sufficient for casual photography and video recording at the time of its release, catering primarily to users who required occasional camera use.

Audio and Connectivity

The phone includes a loudspeaker and a 3.5mm headphone jack, providing options for audio output. Connectivity options include Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n for internet access, Bluetooth 2.1 with A2DP for wireless file transfers, GPS for location services, and stereo FM radio for listening to radio broadcasts. However, it does not support NFC.

Battery Life

The battery is a removable Li-Ion 1450 mAh type, allowing users to replace the battery if needed. The battery life is fairly standard, with a standby time of up to 600 hours and a talk time of up to 12 hours, making it suitable for a full day of basic use.

Additional Features

Some additional features of the device include basic sensors, such as the accelerometer, contributing to functionality like auto-rotation. Despite its simplicity, these features enhance the basic usability of the phone.

Conclusion

The Maxwest Android 320 served as a low-cost entry into the world of smartphones during its time, offering fundamental features for users with simple technological needs. While it may not match today’s advanced smartphones, its small frame, dual SIM capability, and manageable interface provided a stepping stone for transitioning from feature phones to smart devices.