Motorola C168 Comprehensive Review and Pricing

Introduction to Motorola C168

The Motorola C168 is a notable example of early mobile technology that was released in the third quarter of 2005. As a feature phone, it offers a blend of basic functionalities designed to cater to users seeking simplicity and reliability in their communication devices. The C168 exemplifies the era's mobile advancements just before the smartphone revolution, focusing on voice and text communication, with a few additional features that were quite innovative at the time.

Design and Build

The design of the Motorola C168 was compact and lightweight, appealing to users interested in convenience and portability. With dimensions measuring 104.4 x 46 x 14 mm and weighing just 77 grams, the phone was easy to carry and fit comfortably in the pocket. Its plastic build might lack the metal finishes of modern smartphones, but it was sturdy enough to withstand daily wear and tear.

The device was engineered with a simplistic aesthetic, featuring a 5-way navigation key and a monochrome display capable of showcasing 4096 colors. Despite its small screen with a resolution of 128 x 128 pixels, it was considered adequate for navigating through menus and performing essential tasks like texting and calling.

Display

The Motorola C168 features a CSTN display capable of showcasing 4096 colors. Although small by modern standards, the 128 x 128 pixel resolution was typical for devices of its time. The 1:1 aspect ratio made it ideal for displaying text and simple images associated with SMS and basic applications. Users appreciated the screen for its bright colors and clear readability under various lighting conditions, although it lacked the sharpness of TFT and later technologies.

Performance and Hardware

As a feature phone, the C168's performance was focused on delivering efficient basic communication services. The phone had 640 KB of internal storage, which was limited but sufficient for housing a phone book with 600 entries and maintaining call records. The absence of a card slot emphasized its primary function as a communication device rather than a multimedia gadget.

Battery Life

A standout feature of the Motorola C168 was its long-lasting battery life, with a removable Li-Ion 1000 mAh battery. This battery capacity provided users with impressive standby time of up to 340 hours and talk time of about 9 hours and 30 minutes, allowing for extended usage without frequent recharges. This was particularly beneficial for users who relied on their mobile phones while traveling or in areas with limited access to power outlets.

Network and Connectivity

Operating on GSM technology, the C168 supported frequencies over GSM 900 and 1800 bands, making it compatible with a vast majority of global networks. The device offered GPRS Class 8 for data services, which was sufficient for basic WAP browsing, although it did not provide EDGE or high-speed data transfer capabilities. The absence of Bluetooth, WLAN, and USB connectivity options signified its role as a straightforward, no-frills device focused primarily on calls and texting.

Sound and Alerts

The Motorola C168 was equipped with a monophonic speaker designed for clear call reception. While it lacked a 3.5 mm headphone jack and loudspeaker components for media playback, it supported downloadable polyphonic ringtones, allowing for personalization of incoming call alerts. The device also featured vibration alert options, which were convenient for users in scenarios where audible alerts were unsuitable.

Software and Features

True to its classification as a feature phone, the Motorola C168 came with essential software that facilitated basic communication needs. It supported SMS, EMS, and MMS for messaging, though the lack of Java capabilities limited its functionality in running additional applications and games. Nevertheless, the phone provided a few built-in games and had the WAP 2.0/xHTML browser for basic internet browsing.

The presence of an FM radio added value to its entertainment features, allowing users to listen to radio broadcasts on-the-go. Despite the absence of advanced smartphone sensors, the C168 had several practical features that made it a reliable companion for communication and entertainment during its peak years.

Market Impact and Legacy

Upon release, the Motorola C168 was well-received among consumers who preferred simple, easy-to-use mobile devices. Its blend of reliability, compactness, and extended battery life made it a popular choice for users in developing markets and those who required an inexpensive telecommunication device without the complexities of modern smartphones.

While the C168 was discontinued as technology advanced, its legacy lives on as an exemplar of the transitional period in mobile technology, bridging the gap between basic mobile phones and the advent of feature-rich smartphones. For users seeking a device focused on communication with a few additional conveniences, the C168 remains a memorable piece of mobile history.

Conclusion

In summary, the Motorola C168 stands as an illustrative model of early 2000s mobile technology, offering useful features that catered to a wide range of users. Whether for its robust battery life, simplicity, or practicality, the C168 left a lasting imprint on the mobile landscape and is remembered fondly by those who experienced its efficient service firsthand.