Price and specifications of NEC N21i advantages, disadvantages, and a comprehensive explanation

Overview of NEC N21i

The NEC N21i is a feature phone announced and released in 2002. It represents an era when mobile phones were primarily used for basic communication - phone calls and text messages. As such, the NEC N21i exemplifies the simpler, utilitarian designs of early 2000s mobile technology. It was designed to provide essential connectivity with limited multimedia capabilities.

Network and Connectivity

The phone operates on GSM networks, supporting 2G bands GSM 900 and 1800. This was standard for that time, allowing for basic voice calls and text messaging. The device also supports GPRS for rudimentary data transmission, classified as Class 8, but lacks EDGE capabilities. The absence of advanced network technologies such as 3G and LTE aligns with its purpose as a basic communication device.

Launch and Availability

Officially announced in 2002, the NEC N21i was discontinued shortly after. During its short market life, it captured the interest of users looking for a reliable device for essential communications but did not have the longevity to compete as mobile technology rapidly advanced in the years following its release.

Physical Design

The NEC N21i reflects the design aesthetics of early 2000s mobile phones with its compact and somewhat bulky body. It measures 102 x 52 x 24.7 mm and weighs 120 g. The phone uses a Mini-SIM, further signaling its era as technology moved from larger to smaller SIM standards over time. The phone’s physical buttons and traditional T9 keypad provide tactile feedback for dialing and texting.

Display Features

This feature phone sports a CSTN display capable of showing 256 colors. With a resolution of 120 x 160 pixels, this screen functioned adequately for its intended purpose – viewing contacts, reading messages, and basic multimedia. While modest by today's standards, the display was a common type for its time, emphasizing readability over vibrant color reproduction.

Memory and Storage

In terms of memory, the NEC N21i featured a phonebook that could store up to 500 contacts - quite generous for a feature phone. Call records are limited to the last 10 calls dialed, received, and missed. Notably, the phone lacks a card slot, meaning users could not expand storage, emphasizing its basic functionality.

Camera and Multimedia

True to its functional nature, the NEC N21i does not come with a camera, reflecting a time when mobile photography wasn't yet standard. For sound, it does not include a loudspeaker but offers downloadable polyphonic ringtones along with a vibration alert, though it lacks a traditional 3.5mm audio jack, limiting multimedia capabilities.

Communication and Additional Features

Connectivity-wise, the phone lacks modern conveniences like Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and GPS. It also does not include a radio or USB connectivity. Messaging is limited to SMS and Email, catering to the essential communication needs of its users. The phone’s WAP and iMode browser allowed for basic web access, a novel feature at that time.

Battery and Power

The NEC N21i is powered by a removable Li-Ion battery, which was standard for the time, allowing users to switch batteries if needed. It offers up to 165 hours of standby time and up to 3 hours of talk time, reflecting the non-demanding power requirements of its hardware and software.

Software and User Experience

As a feature phone, the NEC N21i runs on a proprietary operating system. With basic applications like a clock, alarm, and a selection of two games (Thief and Rolling Band), the user experience is straightforward and focused on core functionalities. The absence of Java support limits additional application possibilities.

Conclusion

The NEC N21i is a snapshot of early mobile technology, with its feature set focusing on essentials rather than the rich multimedia experiences expected today. Its straightforward user interface and design provided practicality and reliability for users at its time, paving the way for more advanced developments in mobile communication technology.