Unveiling the Motorola C139 Specs Prices Pros & Cons

Introduction to Motorola C139

The Motorola C139 was an entry-level mobile phone that gained popularity in the mid-2000s. Released in the third quarter of 2005, this device was a part of Motorola's endeavors to provide affordable mobile communication to a broader audience. Despite its simplicity, the C139 had several features that appealed to users looking for a basic and reliable phone.

Design and Build

The design of the Motorola C139 is simple yet functional, characterized by its compact form factor. The phone's dimensions were 100.6 x 45.6 x 21.8 mm, making it easy to hold and operate with one hand. Its weight stood at 85 grams, making it lightweight and portable. The C139 featured a Mini-SIM slot and was available in classic colors such as Black and Silver.

Display

The display of the C139 was modest, with a TFT screen capable of showing 65K colors. It presented a resolution of 96 x 64 pixels, which was sufficient for displaying phonebook entries and basic menu navigation. Although small by today's standards, the display served its purpose for the target audience of the time.

Network and Connectivity

The C139 operated on GSM technology, supporting 2G bands specifically GSM 900 and 1800. Unlike some of its contemporaries, the C139 did not support GPRS or EDGE, reflecting its status as a basic phone without advanced internet capabilities. Connectivity options were limited, with no WLAN, Bluetooth, or radio features integrated into the device.

Memory and Storage

The Motorola C139 did not include a memory card slot, which limited users to the phone's built-in capabilities. The internal phonebook could store up to 100 entries, which was reasonable for casual users. It also featured call records, capable of storing details of 10 dialed, 10 received, and 10 missed calls.

Sound and Alerts

The phone supported basic sound features. There was no loudspeaker or 3.5mm jack included, which was common among entry-level phones at the time. However, users could set vibration alerts and download monophonic ringtones. Additionally, a ringtone composer was available for creating personalized tones.

Battery Life

Equipped with a removable Li-Ion 920 mAh battery, the Motorola C139 offered notable battery performance. The standby time was up to 450 hours, and talk time could last up to 11 hours and 40 minutes under optimal conditions. This longevity made it a practical choice for users needing a reliable device throughout the day without frequent recharging.

Entertainment and Features

While the C139 did not include advanced entertainment options, it came with a few built-in games to pass the time. The phone did not support Java, limiting the ability to download third-party applications. Messaging capabilities were limited to SMS, aligning with the primary communication methods of the time.

Market Position and Pricing

Upon its release, the Motorola C139 was priced at about 40 EUR, positioning it as an affordable choice for users seeking a primary communication device without the complexities of more advanced smartphones. This price point made it accessible to a wide range of consumers, particularly in emerging markets where economical devices were in high demand.

Conclusion

The Motorola C139 served as a testament to Motorola's ability to deliver straightforward, reliable mobile phones that met the essential needs of its users. Its durability, extended battery life, and uncomplicated user interface made it a favored choice among those prioritizing functionality over features. While it might not have been groundbreaking, the C139 filled an important niche in the mobile phone market of its time.