NEC N410i Comprehensive Review Specs and Pricing Unveiled

Overview of NEC N410i

The NEC N410i was launched in March 2004, during a time when mobile phones were transitioning from simple communication devices to multifunctional tools. The device was subsequently discontinued, but it remains an interesting reflection of the technological capabilities of that era. As a feature phone, it was not designed to compete with modern smartphones but offered essential communication capabilities alongside some multimedia features.

Design and Build

The NEC N410i exhibits a compact and robust build, indicative of early 2000s mobile design. Its dimensions are 101 x 49 x 24 mm with a weight of 118 grams, making it quite portable and easy to carry. It features a Mini-SIM slot, common to devices at the time. The body of the phone is straightforward but functional, designed to withstand the usual wear and tear of daily usage.

Display

The phone is equipped with a 2.2-inch TFT display, which was quite standard for phones released around that time. With a resolution of 240 x 320 pixels and supporting 65K colors, the screen provides clear and vivid images for its era. The screen-to-body ratio is approximately 30.3%, which aligns with the design trends of early mobile phones where larger bezels were prevalent.

Camera

Highlighting its multimedia capability, the NEC N410i features a single 1.3 MP main camera. Though modest by today's standards, this camera was suitable for capturing simple photographs on the go. The inclusion of an LED flash assists in improving the quality of photos in low light conditions. The device also supports basic video recording, allowing users to capture short video clips.

Network and Connectivity

The NEC N410i is equipped with GSM technology, supporting 2G bands (GSM 900 / 1800 / 1900). For data connectivity, it features GPRS Class 8 but does not support EDGE. While it lacks modern connectivity options like WLAN and Bluetooth, the device includes an infrared port for data transfer, whereas USB connectivity is handled via a proprietary port. This setup reflects the technological standards available during its release period.

Battery Life

Powering the NEC N410i is a removable Li-Ion 950 mAh battery. Its performance provides up to 270 hours of standby time and up to 4 hours and 30 minutes of talk time, which was acceptable at the time for feature phones. The battery's removable nature allows users to easily replace it if necessary, enhancing the phone's longevity and usability.

Memory and Storage

The device comes with an internal storage capacity of 32MB, intended for storing contacts, messages, and a modest number of photos and games. Notably, the phone does not have an expandable memory card slot, which places a natural limitation on storage. It supports a phonebook capacity of up to 500 entries, featuring photo call functionality to assist users in managing contacts efficiently.

Audio and Entertainment

While the NEC N410i lacks a loudspeaker and standard 3.5mm audio jack typical in later models, it supports vibration and downloadable polyphonic ringtones for alerts and notifications. Additionally, the phone offers gaming options with downloadable games and supports Java applications, enabling users to customize their experience with additional software.

Messaging and Browser Capabilities

Messaging capabilities on the NEC N410i include SMS, EMS, MMS, and Email, covering a wide range of communication needs. Users can even browse the internet to some extent with the proprietary iMode browser, although its functionality is quite limited compared to modern internet browsing standards.

Miscellaneous Features

Additional features of the NEC N410i include basic utilities like a calendar, alarm, and calculator, which were valuable tools on feature phones. Its colors are unspecified, but early mobiles often came in limited and pragmatic color palettes. Also, the java support allows for some level of customizability and expansion through compatible software.

Conclusion

The NEC N410i reflects an era where mobile phones were primarily about communication, with emerging multimedia capabilities. Though now considered obsolete, it offers valuable insight into the evolution of mobile technology. The phone's focus on efficiency, compact design, and essential media features provide a snapshot of the mid-2000s mobile landscape.