Micromax X78 The Complete Guide to Specs Prices Pros & Cons

Overview

The Micromax X78 was a feature phone that came onto the market in 2011. Despite being discontinued, it holds a place in the annals of mobile phone history, offering the quintessential features of its time while appealing to budget-conscious consumers. The device reflects a period when feature phones still captivated the market, and its design was specifically tailored for users seeking basic functionality with a hint of multimedia capabilities.

Network Capabilities

The Micromax X78 was equipped with GSM technology, which was the predominant system for voice calls and text messaging during its era. The phone supported 2G bands, including GSM 850/900/1800/1900 across both SIM slots, which allowed users to maintain two active SIM cards simultaneously. Furthermore, the device featured GPRS and EDGE Class 12 for basic internet connectivity, although modern data requirements would far surpass these capabilities today.

Launch and Availability

Announced in 2011, the Micromax X78 quickly became a relic of mobile history owing to its eventual discontinuation. However, during its active years, it carved out a niche among users who prioritized affordability and simplicity over advanced technology. The phone is no longer in production or supported by the manufacturer, making it a collector’s item for tech enthusiasts who appreciate vintage gadgets.

Design and Build

The design of the Micromax X78 adhered to the era’s aesthetic norms, measuring 106 x 57 x 15 mm and weighing 140 grams. Its physical build included a QWERTY keyboard, which became a hallmark for easy typing among feature phones. The X78 supported dual SIM cards through the Mini-SIM format, allowing flexibility for switching between different network carriers.

Display

The device came with a 2.8-inch TFT resistive touchscreen that supported 65K colors. With a resolution of 240 x 320 pixels (~143 ppi density) and a 4:3 ratio, the screen was functional though limited in terms of color vibrancy and viewing angles, typical of devices during that time.

Memory and Storage

The phone supported external memory expansion through a dedicated microSDHC card slot, a handy feature for storing additional media and data, beyond its internal capabilities. The phonebook could store up to 1000 entries, making it adequate for most users’ contact storage needs. Call records could also be easily archived for future reference.

Camera

The main camera on the Micromax X78 was a 3.2 MP shooter, featuring an LED flash for improved low-light photography. While basic by modern standards, it was a fitting inclusion for capturing essential moments and supported video recording as well.

Audio and Media

The phone had a loudspeaker and a 3.5mm audio jack, allowing users to play music or listen to FM radio using headphones or via the loudspeaker. The FM radio feature ensured entertainment options were available offline without additional data costs.

Connectivity

In terms of connectivity, the Micromax X78 was equipped with Bluetooth 3.0 with A2DP, facilitating wireless file transfers and the use of Bluetooth peripherals. Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n connectivity was supported, providing basic broadband access. The phone acted as a Wi-Fi hotspot, a remarkable feature at the time. However, the positioning and navigation capabilities were absent, reflecting the device’s primary focus as a communication tool rather than a multifunctional gadget.

Additional Features

The Micromax X78 operated on a proprietary feature phone OS, focusing on essential functions rather than app-based tasks. It supported SMS and MMS messaging and allowed users to download games for entertainment. Java support was included, facilitating a range of basic applications and functionalities.

Battery Performance

The phone used a removable Li-Ion 950 mAh battery, which was adequate for the device’s power needs, offering up to 5 hours of talk time and up to 192 hours on standby. This would cater to users requiring a reliable battery life without frequent recharging.

Miscellaneous Details

The Micromax X78 was marketed in classic black and white color options. Its retail price was approximately 50 EUR, positioning it as an affordable and practical choice for consumers at the time. Despite the lack of advanced features by today's standards, its value proposition remained strong due to its competitive pricing and functionality.