Mitsubishi M520 Unveiling Specs Prices Pros & Cons

Introduction to Mitsubishi M520

The Mitsubishi M520 was a feature phone that catered to the needs of early mobile phone users. Launched in the fourth quarter of 2004, it was designed during a time when feature phones were prominent, offering basic functionalities that users required. Although the Mitsubishi M520 is now discontinued, its features and capabilities remain a testament to that particular era in mobile technology. This article delves into the various aspects of the Mitsubishi M520, exploring its design, features, hardware specifications, and overall impact.

Design and Build

The Mitsubishi M520's design is a reflection of its time, characterized by a compact and minimalist approach. The device measures 76 x 43 x 22 mm and weighs a mere 75 grams, making it highly portable and easy to slip into a pocket. Despite its small size, the device was built with practicality in mind, featuring a straightforward design to facilitate user interaction.

The device supports a Mini-SIM and comes in two attractive colors: Crystal Silver and Sapphire Blue, offering users a choice in aesthetics. The inclusion of a CSTN display capable of showcasing 65K colors indicates the standard for feature phones at that time, though the screen size remains unspecified. The 128 x 128 pixel resolution provided users with a modest visual experience suitable for basic phone tasks and some light entertainment.

Display Features

The Mitsubishi M520 features a CSTN display, which supports 65K colors. While this is considerably less than contemporary displays, it was common for devices in its class during its release period. The display resolution stands at 128 x 128 pixels, offering a balanced view for basic mobile operations without excessive power consumption.

Network and Connectivity

Technologically, the Mitsubishi M520 operates on GSM networks, specifically GSM 900 and GSM 1800 bands. It offers Class 10 GPRS, which provides a basic level of internet connectivity. However, the device does not support EDGE, limiting its data capabilities. In terms of connectivity, the M520 lacks advanced options such as WLAN, Bluetooth, and GPS positioning. These omissions are understandable given its positioning as an entry-level feature phone.

Camera Capabilities

The device houses a VGA camera, typical of the era’s mobile phones. While the 0.3MP resolution camera may not capture high-definition images, it served its purpose for casual photography. Video recording is supported, but the quality remained basic, suitable only for quick captures rather than detailed videography. The M520 did not include a selfie camera, which was consistent with phones from that period.

Memory and Storage

The memory specifications of the Mitsubishi M520 were modest, featuring 3MB of internal storage without the option for expansion via a memory card slot. This limitation means users had to manage their storage space efficiently. The phonebook capacity allows storing up to 500 entries, and the device supported photo call functionality, which was an attractive feature for users at the time.

It also maintains call records for up to 10 dialed, 10 received, and 10 missed calls, catering to the user's basic needs in call management.

Audio and Sound

The M520 comes without a loudspeaker and does not support a 3.5mm audio jack, which may limit its use as a multimedia device. Users can download polyphonic ringtones, with the phone supporting vibration alerts. Although not equipped with rich audio features, the basic sound settings suffice for signaling calls and messages.

Battery Life and Performance

The Mitsubishi M520 is powered by a removable Li-Ion 680 mAh battery. The battery supports up to 120 hours of standby time and offers a talk time of up to 2 hours. These performance metrics align with the expectations from a feature phone, providing users with reliable battery life for basic use.

Features and Applications

Despite its categorization as a feature phone, the Mitsubishi M520 provides several functionalities such as SMS and MMS messaging capabilities. Internet browsing is supported via WAP 1.2.1, allowing basic web access.

Entertainment options on the M520 include 5 pre-installed games with the possibility of adding more downloadable ones. Additionally, the device supports Java applications via MIDP 1.0, extending its usability with basic apps and games that could be installed at the user’s preference.

Impact and Legacy

When assessing the impact of the Mitsubishi M520, it's crucial to place it within the context of its launch period. The M520 was a testament to the early 2000s feature phones that served users transitioning from basic communication tools to more sophisticated mobile devices. Its simplicity and practical features fulfilled the essential needs of communication and organization during that era.

While it did not revolutionize the mobile phone industry, it contributed to the growing adoption of mobile technology, making mobile communication more accessible to the masses. Mitsubishi’s efforts in crafting the M520 reflect their understanding of user needs, providing a compact and functional device to the consumer market.

Conclusion

The Mitsubishi M520 was a quintessential early 2000s feature phone that blended basic communication tools with a touch of personalization and entertainment. As we look back at its features and capabilities, it becomes apparent that the M520 was well-suited for its time, offering users a reliable means to connect and communicate efficiently. The device holds nostalgic value for users who began their mobile journey with such feature phones, setting the stage for the subsequent generations of mobile technology advancements.