NEC N620 Unveiling Specs Pricing Features & Drawbacks

Design and Build

The NEC N620, with dimensions measuring 99.5 x 52.5 x 20 mm and a weight of 102 grams, is a compact and lightweight device that fits comfortably in the hand. Its design was typical of mobile phones in the early 2000s, with a focus on portability and basic functionality. The phone features a Mini-SIM slot and was available in two classic color options: silver and dark blue. The external design is simple yet functional, suitable for a user base looking for an easy-to-use device.

Display

The display of the NEC N620 is a TFT resistive touchscreen that supports 256,000 colors, providing vibrant and lively visuals for its time. Despite lacking specifics about the screen size, the display resolution stands at 176 x 220 pixels, which was standard for feature phones during that era. It allowed for a relatively clear display of graphics and text, suitable for basic tasks and entertainment such as games and basic multimedia viewing.

Camera

This phone includes a single VGA camera with video capabilities. At 0.3 megapixels, the camera was not meant for high-quality photography but served well for everyday snapshots and basic videos. The camera's inclusion was more about entering the trend of camera phones during its time rather than delivering high-end photographic experiences.

Memory and Storage

Internally, the NEC N620 comes equipped with 2MB of storage, with no card slot available for additional storage expansion. This limited space necessitated careful management of phone entries and multimedia files, aligning with the simplicity and basic usage for which feature phones were intended. The phone could store up to 1000 entries in the phonebook and keep records of up to 20 dialed, received, and missed calls each.

Battery Life

The device is powered by a removable Li-Ion 800 mAh battery, offering up to 200 hours on stand-by and up to 2 hours of talk time. This battery life was typical for phones from the early 2000s, balancing the needs for mobility with a decent battery life that could last a typical day of usage without requiring frequent recharges.

Network and Connectivity

The NEC N620 operates on GSM 900/1900 bands, making it suitable for basic call and SMS functions. However, its connectivity options are limited, with no support for WLAN, Bluetooth, or radio. The absence of these features emphasizes the phone’s role as a primary communication device rather than one for multimedia or advanced connectivity.

Software and Features

As a feature phone, the NEC N620 focuses on core functionalities like SMS, MMS, and email communication. It includes a WAP 1.2.1 browser for basic internet access, a capability not widely used at the time but available for users needing mobile Internet access. The phone also supports Java with MIDP 2.0, enabling the use of downloadable games and applications, which added to the device's entertainment value.

Sound and Multimedia

Sound functionalities on the NEC N620 are basic, featuring vibration alerts and downloadable polyphonic ringtones for personalization. With no loudspeaker or 3.5mm jack, multimedia consumption on this device is limited, illustrating the phone's intended use as a tool for communication rather than a multimedia device.

Special Features

While the NEC N620 lacks advanced sensors or positioning systems like GPS, it is equipped with a basic set of features appropriate for its time. These include limited messaging services and Java-based applications, providing users with a familiar and straightforward mobile experience.

Conclusion

The NEC N620 serves as a snapshot of the transitional phase in mobile technology where devices moved from basic communication tools towards more advanced, feature-rich smartphones. While the N620 might not boast impressive specifications by today’s standards, it was an accessible option in its time, focused on the essentials of mobile communication and streamlined usability. For users in the early 2000s, it represented a forward step in blending functionality, portability, and emerging mobile technology trends.