Motorola W161 Comprehensive Specs Pros & Cons and Pricing Revealed

Introduction to the Motorola W161

The Motorola W161 is a feature phone that was released in February 2008. This article explores the different aspects of the device, including its design, features, performance, and market positioning. Despite being discontinued, the W161 remains a notable example of the mobile technology that was prevalent in the late 2000s.

Design and Build

The Motorola W161 was designed for simplicity and durability. Its dimensions are 114 x 43 x 14 mm, making it a compact device in its time. Weighing only 85 grams, it was lightweight and easy to carry. The phone used a Mini-SIM, a common standard during its release period. Despite its basic plastic construction, the W161's design focused on functionality and resilience.

Display

The phone features a monochrome graphics display with a resolution of 128 x 128 pixels and a 1:1 aspect ratio. While this may seem outdated by modern standards, it was adequate for the phone's functionality, primarily focusing on calling and text messaging. The lack of complex graphics was balanced by the display's low power consumption.

Memory and Storage

Storage on the Motorola W161 was limited as there was no card slot available for expanded storage. It supported a phonebook capacity of up to 200 entries and could store records of 10 dialed, 10 received, and 10 missed calls. This was sufficient for basic communication needs, as the device was not intended for heavy multimedia use.

Communications and Networks

The Motorola W161 was equipped with GSM technology and supported 2G networks (GSM 900 / 1800). It did not support GPRS or EDGE, which reflects its focus on voice calls and SMS rather than internet connectivity. While this limited the phone's capabilities in terms of online activity, it was common for devices in its category.

Sound and Multimedia

The W161 did not come with a loudspeaker or 3.5mm jack, but it supported polyphonic ringtones with up to 32 voices. Vibration alerts were also an option. The device included an FM radio, offering users access to music and news without the need for the internet.

Battery and Power Life

One of the key strengths of the Motorola W161 was its battery life. It had a removable Li-Ion battery that could last up to 465 hours on standby and offered talk time of up to 9 hours and 50 minutes. This was particularly advantageous at a time when frequent charging was less feasible.

Features and Usability

The phone's simplicity extended to its feature set. It lacked modern sensors, web browsers, or connectivity options like WLAN or Bluetooth. Users could send SMS messages, and it featured three embedded games for casual entertainment. The phone was equipped with support for multiple languages, including seven African languages, Hindi, and English, which broadened its accessibility.

Market Positioning and Price

Priced at about 30 EUR at launch, the Motorola W161 was an affordable option aimed at users who prioritized basic communication functions over advanced features. Its low cost made it accessible to a wider audience, especially in regions where the demand for budget-friendly mobile phones was high.

Conclusion

In an era where feature phones were the norm, the Motorola W161 stood out as a practical and durable device. While it lacked the advanced capabilities of modern smartphones, it fulfilled the essential communication needs of its users. The combination of long battery life, simple design, and affordability solidified its place in the market during its time. Even though it has been discontinued, the W161 remains a testament to the evolution of mobile technology and the diverse requirements of users around the world.