Motorola W213 Specs Pricing Pros & Cons Unveiled

Overview

The Motorola W213 is a classic feature phone that was announced in October 2007 and has since been discontinued. It is an example of basic mobile technology, offering essential features without the complexity of modern smartphones. Despite its simplicity, the W213 holds its charm for those who appreciated the simple and straightforward mobile experience of the late 2000s.

Design and Build

The Motorola W213 features a compact and sturdy design. With dimensions of 108 x 44 x 14.9 mm and a weight of just 78 grams, it is incredibly lightweight and portable, fitting easily into pockets and small bags. The phone comes with a classic black finish, exuding a timeless elegance. It uses a Mini-SIM format, which was standard during its release period. The device's straightforward build was well-suited for users looking for durability and simplicity.

Display

The device is equipped with a 1.55-inch CSTN display capable of showing 65K colors. It has a resolution of 128 x 128 pixels, which gives it a pixel density of around 117 ppi. Though modest by today's standards, this display was adequate for basic phone functionalities such as browsing through contacts, sending messages, and viewing simple graphics in games.

Network and Connectivity

The Motorola W213 operates on GSM technology, supporting 2G bands (GSM 900/1800.) Connectivity options include basic GPRS, but there is no support for EDGE, Bluetooth, or WLAN. The device includes a mini-USB port for charging and data transfer. These features represent the basic connectivity options commonly found in feature phones of that era.

Memory and Storage

Internally, the Motorola W213 offers 1MB of storage space. This is sufficient for storing phone numbers, with a capacity for up to 500 contacts, and call records (10 dialed, 10 received, 10 missed calls). The phone does not support memory cards, so users need to manage the limited storage carefully, typical of feature phones of its time.

Battery Life

Powered by a removable Li-Ion battery, the W213 boasts impressive battery life statistics. It supports up to 350 hours of standby time and up to 8 hours and 30 minutes of talk time, making it a reliable device for daily use without frequent charging. Its lasting battery life is one of the significant advantages over modern smartphones.

Sound and Multimedia

In terms of sound, the Motorola W213 did not include a loudspeaker or a 3.5mm jack. The phone supports vibration alerts and polyphonic (32) ringtones. It also features a composer for creating custom ringtones. The inclusion of an FM radio adds a touch of entertainment, allowing users to listen to their favorite stations directly from their handset.

Communication and Messaging

This device supports SMS, EMS, MMS, and Instant Messaging, providing users several options to communicate. While it does not support Java applications, the built-in WAP 2.0/xHTML browser allows for basic internet browsing within the constraints of 2G speed. Even with limited capabilities, the phone managed to meet the fundamental communication needs of its users at the time.

Games and Additional Features

The Motorola W213 comes preloaded with several popular games like Tetris and Sudoku, offering simple yet engaging entertainment. These games are classic choices that are easy to play with the phone's limited controls, providing users with leisure options on-the-go.

Value and Market Position

Upon release, the Motorola W213 was marketed at about 70 EUR, placing it in the affordable category of mobile phones. This price point made it accessible for a broad audience, especially those who required a secondary phone or a basic handset without the frills of modern smartphones. Its strong battery life and durable build were significant selling points.

Conclusion

The Motorola W213 represents a segment of mobile devices focused on delivering essential communication functions without the complexity and cost of a smartphone. While it lacks many features that are standard today, such as a camera or a high-resolution display, the W213 appeals to those who appreciate a simple, reliable, and cost-effective mobile experience. It is a reminder of an era where phones served their primary purpose—communication—while offering just a bit of entertainment through its basic games and FM radio support.