Price and specifications of Nokia 109 advantages, disadvantages, and a comprehensive explanation

Overview of Nokia 109

The Nokia 109 is a feature phone that was launched by Nokia in November 2012 and released in December of the same year. Targeted towards users seeking simplicity and affordability, this phone stands out as an example of Nokia's dedication to creating reliable and user-friendly mobile devices.

Design and Build

The Nokia 109 features a compact design with dimensions measuring 110 x 46 x 14.8 mm, making it comfortable to hold and easy to use with one hand. Weighing only 77 grams, this lightweight device is perfect for users who prioritize portability. The phone is available in two colors, Black and Cyan, catering to different aesthetic preferences.

The body of the Nokia 109 is robust, designed to withstand the daily wear and tear of everyday use. It's a simple yet functional design, embodying the core philosophy of Nokia's feature phones. The device uses a Mini-SIM card, which was standard for many phones during its release period.

Display

The phone is equipped with a 1.8-inch TFT display that offers 65K colors. The screen resolution is 128 x 160 pixels, providing a pixel density of approximately 114 ppi. While the display might seem modest compared to modern smartphones, it is practical for the device's intended use, showing clear text and basic images suitable for calls, texts, and simple applications.

Network and Connectivity

The Nokia 109 operates on GSM technology, supporting 2G bands GSM 900 and 1800. It offers basic GPRS and EDGE connectivity with speeds up to 236.8 kbps, making it suitable for lightweight internet browsing and messaging services. The phone does not support advanced connectivity options like Bluetooth, WLAN, NFC, or USB, focusing instead on stable voice communication and text messaging capabilities.

Memory and Storage

The device is equipped with 64MB of internal storage and 16MB of RAM, specifications that cater to the minimalist demands of a feature phone. For users needing additional storage, the Nokia 109 includes a dedicated microSDHC slot, allowing for the expansion of storage to accommodate more data such as contacts, SMS, and simple media files.

The phone can store up to 1000 contacts in its phonebook, which is quite accommodating for a feature phone that is intended for basic communication purposes. Call record capabilities are also present, enhancing the array of straightforward but useful functionalities.

Sound and Multimedia

For audio, the Nokia 109 offers a loudspeaker and a 3.5mm headphone jack, allowing users to listen to music or the FM radio through wired headphones. The inclusion of a stereo FM radio with RDS and recording options extends the entertainment offerings of this basic device. While multimedia capabilities are limited compared to smartphones, the sound quality is satisfactory for daily use.

Software and Features

The Nokia 109 runs on a proprietary feature phone operating system, emphasizing ease of use and efficient power management. It supports SMS with a threaded view, MMS, email, and instant messaging, providing a comprehensive set of messaging options for users who need to stay connected through basic communication channels.

Additionally, the phone supports Java (MIDP 2.1), allowing users to install simple Java-based applications and games, enhancing its utility and entertainment value. While it lacks advanced smartphone capabilities, the Nokia 109’s software setup is straightforward and serves its purpose well.

Battery Life

The Nokia 109 is powered by a removable Li-Ion 800 mAh battery (BL-5CB), which is impressive given the device's low power consumption. The battery offers up to 790 hours of standby time and up to 7 hours and 40 minutes of talk time, ensuring users can go about their day without constantly worrying about recharging the phone. Moreover, it provides up to 21 hours and 30 minutes of music playback, ideal for users who enjoy listening to the radio or their own music tracks.

Market Impact and Discontinuation

When released, the Nokia 109 was priced around 40 EUR, making it an affordable choice for users globally seeking a reliable secondary phone or a primary device for straightforward communication. It catered to markets that benefitted from inexpensive connectivity solutions, including emerging economies where smartphone adoption was not yet widespread.

Despite its discontinuation, the Nokia 109 remains a testament to Nokia’s expertise in designing practical and durable mobile devices. It appeals to nostalgists and collectors who appreciate classic mobile technology, as well as to individuals who continue to seek basic, dependable phones in a smartphone-dominated landscape.