Unveiling Motorola M3588 Specs Prices Pros & Cons

Introduction to Motorola M3588

The Motorola M3588 is a mobile phone model that was launched towards the end of the 20th century, precisely announced in 1999. It was part of the feature phone era, marking an important time in mobile phone evolution, where basic communication technologies were the primary focus. Unlike today's smartphones, the Motorola M3588 was a device that catered to the essential needs of making calls and sending text messages. This article provides an in-depth look into the features and specifications that defined this classic mobile device.

Network Capability

The Motorola M3588 was equipped with GSM technology, which stands for Global System for Mobile Communications. It operated on the 2G network bands, specifically GSM 900 and 1800. This meant that it supported voice calls and basic SMS messaging services, without the data capabilities we are accustomed to today, such as GPRS or EDGE.

Design and Build

The design of the Motorola M3588 was typical of the period's mobile devices, with a robust and slightly bulky form factor. The dimensions measured at 140 x 50 x 25 mm, which, combined with its weight of 170 g, made it a sturdy handset. While it might not be considered lightweight by modern standards, this design contributed to its durability. The phone featured a removable Mini-SIM, a standard at the time.

Display Features

The Motorola M3588 featured a monochrome graphic display, which was common for phones from that era. The resolution of the screen was 96 x 32 pixels, allowing it to display four lines of text, featuring up to 12 characters per line. This was sufficient for displaying numbers, contact names, and SMS text.

Memory and Storage

In terms of memory, the Motorola M3588 did not come with advanced storage capabilities. There was no card slot for external memory cards. The phonebook was limited to the SIM card's capacity, which usually held a few contacts. Call records were basic, storing up to 10 dialed calls, 5 received calls, and 5 missed calls.

Sound and Alert System

The phone featured monophonic ringtones, a standard at the time, providing simple beeps and tones for alerts. There was no loudspeaker or 3.5mm audio jack, meaning that all audio was emitted through the phone's earpiece.

Communication Features

Unlike modern smartphones, the Motorola M3588 lacked advanced communication technologies. There were no options for WLAN, Bluetooth, radio, or GPS positioning. The absence of these features underlines the device's focus on basic telecommunication needs.

Additional Features

The Motorola M3588 offered minimal additional features beyond its core functionality. It lacked a clock, alarm, browser, and games. The phone, however, supported SMS messaging and could display content in 26 different languages. There was no Java support, which nowadays could be a surprising limitation.

Battery Life

One notable feature of the Motorola M3588 was its battery life. It was powered by a removable NiMH battery with a capacity of 700 mAh. The phone could stand by for approximately 110 hours and provided a talk time of around 230 minutes. This level of battery performance was adequate for users who prioritized reliability in basic mobile use.

Discontinuation and Legacy

The Motorola M3588 has since been discontinued, marking its place in the annals of early mobile phone history. It is remembered for its robust design and reliable basic features, which appealed to a broad user base. While it may seem rudimentary compared to today's standards, the M3588 paved the way for subsequent innovations in mobile technology.

In conclusion, the Motorola M3588 stands as a reflection of its time—a testament to the era when mobile communication was still evolving and simplicity was key. Understanding its features and limitations helps appreciate how far mobile technology has come, from bulky feature phones to sleek, multifunctional smartphones.