Micromax H360 Unveiling Features Pricing and Performance

Network and Connectivity

The Micromax H360 operates on GSM and HSPA network technologies. It was designed to support multiple 2G bands, including GSM 850, 900, 1800, and 1900. This ensures a wide range of compatibility with different network providers globally. For 3G, it supports the HSDPA 850, 1900, and 2100 bands, which were commonly used around the time of its release. The device offers HSPA speeds of 3.6/0.384 Mbps, which were considered capable for basic browsing and downloading needs in the late 2000s.

Launch and Market Positioning

The Micromax H360 was announced and released in October 2009. It targeted consumers seeking an affordable feature phone with internet capabilities. Given its discontinuation in later years, the H360 is now often celebrated as an early example of Micromax's strategy to capture emerging markets with cost-effective phones offering competitive features.

Design and Build

The H360 comes with dimensions of 113 x 49.8 x 13 mm, making it a compact device that fits comfortably in the hand. Weighing 104 g, it is lightweight, contributing to its portability. The phone supports a Mini-SIM, aligning with the standard of the time. Its build quality, while basic, was robust enough to cater to the everyday needs of users when the device was released.

Display

The phone features a 2.4-inch TFT display, supporting 256K colors. While not large by today's standards, it was adequate for text messaging and basic app usage, offering a resolution of 240 x 320 pixels with a 4:3 aspect ratio and approximately 167 ppi density. This provided users with clear and vibrant screen visibility for a variety of tasks.

Memory and Storage

The Micromax H360 includes 52MB of internal storage, suitable for storing contacts and a limited amount of multimedia files. It features a dedicated microSDHC card slot for expandable storage, addressing the needs of users requiring more space for their files and applications. The phonebook capacity allows for up to 1000 entries, with photocall support, making it practical for users with extensive contact lists.

Camera

Equipped with a 3.15 MP rear camera, the H360 was positioned to offer users a basic photography tool. While it doesn't compare to modern smartphones, it served its purpose by allowing users to capture moments on the go. The device supports video recording, albeit at a low resolution compared to contemporary standards. Additionally, the presence of a front camera caters to rudimentary selfies and video calls.

Sound and Multimedia

The phone includes a loudspeaker, which is typical for phones from this era, but lacks a 3.5mm audio jack, necessitating the use of compatible accessories for private listening. This can be seen as a limitation for those who prefer wired headphones. However, basic multimedia needs were met through downloadable games and inbuilt applications.

Communications Features

The device does not support WLAN but includes Bluetooth 2.0 with A2DP for wireless data transfer. The absence of GPS and FM radio means users must rely on other methods for navigation and entertainment. It uses a proprietary USB connection for charging and data transfer, which was common at the time of its release.

Software and User Interface

Running a basic operating system characteristic of feature phones, the H360 supports SMS, MMS, and a WAP 2.0/xHTML browser for internet access. While limited in capabilities compared to smartphones, these features allowed users basic communication and browsing functions. Downloadable games and Java support via MIDP 2.0 gave users entertainment options.

Battery Life

The Micromax H360 includes a removable Li-Ion 1000 mAh battery. While not powerful by modern benchmarks, it provides a stand-by time of up to 180 hours and a talk time of approximately 4 hours. This was typically sufficient for daily usage without frequent charging, fitting the lifestyle of the average feature phone user back in the day.

Price and Availability

When it was available, the Micromax H360 was priced at about 60 EUR, positioning it in the affordable segment of the market. Its availability in black color gave it a classic and timeless look, appealing to a broad audience seeking simplicity and essential functionalities without the complexities of modern smartphones.

Conclusion

The Micromax H360 stands as a testament to the transitional phase of mobile technology, bridging the gap between basic feature phones and early smartphone capabilities. While it has been discontinued and surpassed by more advanced technology, it remains an interesting piece of mobile history that showcased Micromax's approach to delivering functional and affordable mobile solutions to the masses.