Micromax X288 Comprehensive Specs Prices & Insights

Introduction to Micromax X288

The Micromax X288 was a feature phone launched in the second quarter of 2012. Despite its discontinuation, it represents an interesting chapter in the evolution of mobile phones, bridging the gap between simple devices and modern smartphones. This article will delve deep into the specifications, features, and historical context of the Micromax X288 to provide a comprehensive understanding of this device.

Design and Build

The design of the Micromax X288 reflects the classic styling of feature phones that dominated the early 2010s. With dimensions of 113.7 x 49 x 15.8 mm and a weight of 61.7 grams, it was compact and lightweight, making it an ideal on-the-go companion. Its gray color provided a sleek and professional appearance. The device featured a Dual SIM (Mini-SIM) slot, catering to users who required multiple lines.

Display

The display of the Micromax X288 is a 2.4-inch TFT screen with 256K colors. Its resolution is 240 x 320 pixels, which, while lower than today's standards, was sufficient for displaying essential information like text messages and menus. The screen-to-body ratio was approximately 32%, which highlights the practical design focus rather than a visual-centered one.

Performance and Operating System

This device was powered by a feature phone operating system, which was typical for devices of its kind in 2012. While specific details about the processor and RAM are not highlighted, the phone's functionality focused on reliability for calls and messaging rather than heavy multitasking or graphic-intensive apps.

Camera

The Micromax X288 was equipped with a single 1.3 MP main camera. Although simple compared to modern standards, it was adequate for basic photography and allowed for video recording, which was an added benefit in a feature phone at the time. The absence of a selfie camera was typical, as the front-facing camera was not a standard feature for feature phones during this period.

Connectivity and Network

The phone supported GSM technology and operated on 2G bands across GSM 900 and 1800 for both SIM slots. It included GPRS for basic internet access, while EDGE was not supported. Connectivity options were expanded with Bluetooth, allowing for wireless data transfer between devices. Unfortunately, it did not support WLAN, Positioning, or modern USB connections, instead utilizing a proprietary USB connection for charging and data transfer.

Sound and Multimedia

For audio, the Micromax X288 came with a loudspeaker and a 3.5mm jack, facilitating personal and communal music listening experiences. The phone supported FM radio, which was a popular feature at the time, enabling users to access news and entertainment on the go. The availability of downloadable games and Java support added to its entertainment value.

Memory and Storage

The phone featured a dedicated microSDHC card slot, allowing users to expand the storage according to their needs. This was crucial as internal storage details are not specified, and feature phones typically had limited built-in memory. Users had the flexibility to store more contacts, SMS, and multimedia content due to this expandable memory option.

Battery Life

One of the noteworthy features of the Micromax X288 was its removable Li-Ion battery, which supported a stand-by time of up to 700 hours and a talk time of up to 8 hours. This impressive battery life made it highly advantageous for users who valued long-lasting performance without frequent charging interruptions.

Additional Features

Additional features of the Micromax X288 included support for dual SIM cards, SMS, MMS, and downloadable games. It did not sport advanced sensor technology, which was common for phones in this category. Despite its limitations by today’s standards, the phone offered a robust feature set for users focused on basic communication needs.

Market Position and Historical Context

Released at a price point of approximately 30 EUR, the Micromax X288 was positioned in a competitive segment targeting budget-conscious consumers seeking a reliable communication device. Feature phones like the X288 played an essential role in the global mobile phone market by providing affordable connectivity options to a broad audience. The second quarter of 2012 was a period marked by rapid smartphone advancements, yet feature phones remained a key player for many users.

Conclusion

The Micromax X288, though discontinued, exemplifies the feature phone era that served as a stepping stone towards today's mobile technology. With its balanced blend of basic functionality, reliable performance, and budget-friendly pricing, it represents a valuable artifact in mobile phone history.