Unveiling the Motorola V3690 Full Specs Pricing and Verdict

Introduction

The Motorola V3690 is a quintessential example of early mobile technology that shaped the communication landscape at the turn of the 21st century. Released in 1999, this feature phone encapsulated the needs of its time with durability, simplicity, and functional design.

Design and Build

The Motorola V3690 was designed with practicality in mind. Measuring 83 x 44 x 25 mm and weighing 83 grams, it was compact and lightweight, making it convenient to carry around. Its design was relatively basic, featuring a monochrome graphic display, which was common during its era. The display supported a resolution of 98 x 64 pixels and could show up to five lines of text.

Network and Connectivity

Operating on GSM 900 and 1800 bands, the V3690 catered to the essential need for voice communication. It did not support GPRS or EDGE, as the concept of mobile internet was still burgeoning. The absence of modern connectivity options like WLAN, Bluetooth, and positioning technologies reflected the primary focus on voice calls rather than data services.

Battery and Performance

Fitted with a removable Li-Ion 500 mAh battery, the phone offered standby times ranging from 55 to 125 hours, and talk time between 130 to 200 minutes. This was remarkable for its time, as energy efficiency was achieved without the drain of power-hungry features found in modern smartphones.

Memory and Storage

The phone boasted a simple memory setup, with no card slot for expandable storage—an indication of its time when phones served primarily as communication devices. It could store up to 100 contacts, and maintained call records of 10 dialed, 5 received, and 5 missed calls. This limited space emphasized the straightforward functionality of the handset.

Sound and Alert Features

In line with its minimalistic design, the Motorola V3690 featured monophonic ringtones and vibration alerts. There was no loudspeaker or 3.5mm jack, highlighting the phone's focus on fundamental communication rather than multimedia capabilities.

Messaging and Language Support

The V3690 included SMS capabilities, enabling basic text messaging. It supported 26 languages, showcasing Motorola's intention to cater to a global market even at this early stage in mobile phone history. While it lacked more advanced browsers and email functionalities seen in later models, its SMS feature was critical for personal communication of that time.

Miscellaneous Features

The Motorola V3690 lacked sensors, browser support, and Java function. It was, however, equipped with a simple clock feature for timekeeping. The lack of a built-in alarm and games reaffirmed its focus on essential operations rather than entertainment. Available in three colors, the phone offered a degree of personal aesthetic choice.

Conclusion

The Motorola V3690, though discontinued, remains a symbol of an era where mobile phones began transcending from luxury items to everyday necessities. It emphasized functionality, reliability, and simplicity, principles that remain essential in the design of communication devices. While it might not compete with the smartphones of today, its contribution to mobile technology set the groundwork for the mobile communication revolution.