Motorola C200 Specs Pricing Pros & Cons Unveiled

Overview

The Motorola C200, a feature phone released in the third quarter of 2003, stands as a beacon of simplicity and functionality from the early 2000s. As part of the classic lineup of Motorola devices that sought to provide reliable communication to a broad consumer base, the C200 fit well into the era's technological framework, characterized by the transition from feature phones to more intricate smartphones.

Design and Build

The Motorola C200 presents itself with modest dimensions of 105 x 44 x 20 mm and a lightweight design weighing just 84 grams. This compact and portable design made it easy for users to carry the phone comfortably in pockets or small handbags. Constructed to be sturdy and practical, the C200 was available in three colors: White, Blue, and Green. Its form factor featured a classic candy bar style, with a monochrome graphic display that exemplified the traditional aesthetics of mobile phones during that time.

Display

The C200 is equipped with a monochrome graphic display, supporting a resolution of 98 x 64 pixels. This simple screen, capable of displaying up to 5 lines of text, was designed for basic text reading and navigation within the phone's menu. The display's 3:2 aspect ratio ensured clarity in text viewing, essential for SMS messaging and reading call histories, while the absence of color contributed to a longer battery life.

Network and Connectivity

The phone operates on a GSM 900/1800 network band, making it suitable for basic voice communications. However, it lacks GPRS and EDGE capabilities, which means data connectivity for browsing or streaming was not possible with this model. The absence of advanced connectivity options such as Bluetooth, WLAN, and USB further solidifies its position as a traditional mobile communication tool.

Battery Life

One of the advantages of the Motorola C200 was its dependable battery life. It housed a removable Li-Ion 700 mAh battery (BA240), which could offer up to 192 hours of standby time and up to 6 hours of talk time. This long-lasting battery life was particularly valuable for users seeking a phone with reliable performance without frequent charging.

Memory and Storage

Onboard the C200, the storage for personal data was limited but adequate for the phone's primary functions. It could store up to 100 contacts in its phonebook and maintain call records for the last 10 dialed, 10 received, and 10 missed calls. There was no option for expandable memory, which was typical for phones of its category and generation.

Sound and Alerts

The Motorola C200 did not include a loudspeaker or a 3.5mm headphone jack. Instead, it relied on downloadable monophonic ringtones and vibration alerts to notify users of incoming calls and messages. While simplistic by today's standards, these features were sufficient for effective communication at the time of its release.

Features and Software

The C200’s operational essence lies in its straightforward software capabilities. The phone facilitated SMS messaging, vital for quick text communications. The presence of a WAP 1.1 browser provided limited internet access, suited primarily for checking basic email or lightweight web content. Additional practical features included a clock and an alarm. For entertainment, the phone offered three pre-installed games: Snake, Box World, and 5 Stones. Despite lacking Java support for more sophisticated applications, these built-in games provided leisure for users.

Durability and User Friendliness

Designed for user-friendliness, the Motorola C200's interface and key layout were intuitive, making it accessible to a wide range of users, especially those not tech-savvy. Its simple design and robust build quality ensured durability, allowing it to withstand common wear and tear.

Market Position and Legacy

Though it was discontinued, the Motorola C200 is remembered fondly by users who valued its reliability and simplicity. In an era dominated by the emergence of smartphones, the C200 remained faithful to the core objective of mobile communication—connecting people through calls and texts. Its release captured a segment of the market that preferred or required a phone with basic functions, long battery life, and straightforward usability.

Conclusion

The Motorola C200 encapsulates the essence of early 2000s mobile technology, reflecting the era's transitional phase within the telecommunications industry. While modern technology has vastly surpassed the capabilities of the C200, this device's focus on essential functions, user accessibility, and robust design represent a key chapter in the journey to the advanced smartphones we use today.