NEC N500iS Ultimate Specs Pricing Pros & Cons Unveiled

Overview of the NEC N500iS

The NEC N500iS is a feature phone that was announced in February 2006. Although it is now discontinued, it represented a significant step in mobile technology during its time. With features like Bluetooth connectivity, a 1.3 MP camera, and polyphonic ringtones, the N500iS was positioned as a versatile device for users looking for basic multimedia functions.

Design and Build

The N500iS offered a compact and lightweight design, with dimensions of 101 x 48 x 13.6 mm and weighing just 95 grams. This made it pocket-friendly and easy to handle. The phone was built with a mix of plastic materials and featured a black color finish.

The device utilized a Mini-SIM form factor, which was the standard during the time of its release.

Display

The NEC N500iS featured a TFT screen capable of displaying 65K colors. While it might seem rudimentary by today's standards, during its time, this display technology was sufficient for displaying images and accessing simple applications.

With a resolution of 176 x 220 pixels over a 1.9-inch screen, the display was functional for executing basic tasks like making calls, sending messages, and playing simple games.

Camera

One of the appealing multimedia features of the N500iS was its 1.3 MP rear camera. While the resolution may not offer high-quality photographic experiences by today’s standards, it provided an entry-level way for users to capture moments and record videos, making the phone more than just a communication device.

Performance and Storage

The device came with 54MB of internal storage. Although it did not feature a card slot for expandable storage, at the time, this was generally sufficient for saving contacts, basic multimedia content, and downloaded games.

Performance-wise, the N500iS was configured as a feature phone, utilizing basic processing capabilities to handle tasks like sending SMS, EMMS, MMS, and emails.

Battery Life

The NEC N500iS was powered by a removable Li-Ion 820 mAh battery. This provided users with up to 200 hours of stand-by time and up to 3 hours of talk time, which was fairly standard for feature phones of that era.

Connectivity and Communication

In terms of network capabilities, the N500iS supported GSM technology with 2G bands on GSM 900 / 1800 / 1900, allowing for geographic mobility and compatibility with networks in various countries.

It provided basic internet functionality with GPRS Class 10 and EDGE Class 10, supporting WAP browsing and iMode for accessing information online, even though the browsing speed and experience were limited compared to today’s standards.

Bluetooth capability further enhanced the device's utility, allowing for wireless communication and data exchange within a limited range. Unfortunately, it did not include Wi-Fi or a GPS navigator.

Audio and Extra Features

The absence of a loudspeaker and a 3.5mm jack meant that users had to rely on vibration and downloadable polyphonic ringtones for audio alerts, which was typical for feature phones during that time.

The phone supported downloadable games and Java MIDP 2.0 applications, adding a layer of entertainment and productivity for users seeking to do more with their phones.

Market Impact and Legacy

When released, the NEC N500iS was appreciated for its blend of essential communication features and entry-level multimedia capabilities. It bridged a gap for users transitioning from purely communication-focused phones to devices capable of basic multimedia functions.

Even though it has been discontinued, the N500iS is remembered as part of the evolutionary timeline that led to the smartphones we know today. It represents a time when manufacturers were beginning to integrate more features into phones, setting the stage for future phone innovations.