NEC e228 Unveiling Features Pricing and Performance Insights

Overview of NEC e228

The NEC e228 is a feature phone that was announced in the second quarter of 2004. Known for its basic functionality and affordability, this phone was a popular choice among users looking for a simple, reliable device for basic communication needs. Although discontinued, it remains an interesting piece of mobile technology history. This article delves into the various features and specifications of the NEC e228, exploring its design, network capabilities, display, camera, and more.

Design and Build Quality

The NEC e228 boasts a compact design with dimensions of 129 x 54 x 21 mm and a weight of 125 grams, making it portable and easy to hold. It uses a Mini-SIM card and offers a traditional phone design prevalent in the early 2000s. The build quality of the e228 reflects the practical approach of feature phones during that era, focusing more on durability and functionality than aesthetics.

Network Technology

This device supports both GSM 900/1800 bands and UMTS 2100, allowing for adequate connectivity in areas with these network types. Although the e228 does not offer the high-speed data capabilities seen in modern smartphones, it does support data speeds of up to 384 kbps, which was considerable at the time of its launch. This enabled basic web browsing and multimedia messaging services.

Display

The NEC e228 is equipped with a 2.2-inch TFT display capable of showing 65K colors. With a resolution of 176 x 220 pixels and a pixel density of approximately 128 ppi, the screen delivers basic visibility, which is adequate for the phone's essential functions. Although not comparable to today's high-definition displays, it was sufficient for viewing contacts, messages, and simple applications.

Memory and Storage

The internal memory of the NEC e228 is 19MB, with additional storage options via a Memory Stick Duo slot. This was a common method for storage expansion in phones at the time, offering users the flexibility to store additional data such as contacts, call records, and multimedia files. The phonebook capacity supports up to 500 entries, while the call log can keep records of 20 dialed, received, and missed calls each.

Camera Features

Equipped with a VGA (0.3MP) main camera, the NEC e228 offers basic photographic capabilities. While it can capture simple images and videos, it lacks the resolution and intricacy of modern smartphone cameras. There is also a front-facing camera, though the specifications for video recording are not explicitly detailed. Users could use this feature for video calls, a novelty at the time.

Sound and Alerts

The NEC e228 does not come with a loudspeaker or a 3.5mm headphone jack, focusing on simplicity. Alert types include vibration and downloadable polyphonic ringtones, popular at the time for personalizing the phone's audio notifications. This limited sound profile aligns with the phone's position as a basic communication tool.

Connectivity Options

In terms of connectivity, the e228 offers no modern wireless options such as WLAN, Bluetooth, or positioning services. It lacks a radio, emphasizing its function as a straightforward phone without the frills of newer models. The absence of USB further underlines its status as a device designed primarily for calls and messages.

Additional Features

The NEC e228 is equipped with essential features such as SMS, MMS, and email messaging capabilities, alongside a WAP 2.0/xHTML browser for basic internet access. The phone supports Java, allowing users to download and run Java applications and games, adding a level of entertainment to the user experience. However, its limited processing power means it's best suited for simple applications.

Battery Life

Powered by a removable Li-Ion 1100 mAh battery, the NEC e228 provides standby time up to 100 hours and talk time up to 2 hours. While this might seem limited by today's standards, it was typical for feature phones in 2004. The focus on talk time over multimedia usage extended battery performance appropriately for its intended use.

Conclusion

The NEC e228 served as a reliable communication device during its time, categorized as a feature phone with sufficient capabilities to meet basic user needs. Its simple design, basic connectivity options, and straightforward multimedia functions catered to a user base seeking practicality over complexity. While discontinued and overshadowed by the advent of smartphones, the NEC e228 represents an era of mobile technology where the balance of function and simplicity was key.