Price and specifications of Nokia 1661 advantages, disadvantages, and a comprehensive explanation

Introduction to Nokia 1661

Nokia 1661 was released in 2009 as a low-budget mobile phone offering practical functionalities without the frills of a smartphone. Being a feature phone, it catered to basic communication needs while being affordable for the masses. Below we delve into the various specifications and features of the Nokia 1661 that made it popular at the time.

Network and Connectivity

The Nokia 1661 operates on GSM technology, capable of running on GSM 900/1800 frequency bands, making it functional across various global networks. However, it does not support GPRS or EDGE for enhanced data connectivity. Its connectivity capabilities are minimal, which is consistent with its positioning as a basic feature phone.

Launch and Availability

Announced in November 2008 and released in the second quarter of 2009, the Nokia 1661 was discontinued later. During its availability, it catered primarily to those seeking a straightforward mobile device, emphasizing durability and functionality over modern features.

Design and Build

The dimensions of the Nokia 1661 are 108 x 45 x 13.8 mm, and it has a volume of 65.9 cc. Weighing just 82 grams, the phone is lightweight and easy to handle. Its compact size and weight were advantageous, providing comfortable portability and ease of use. The phone utilizes a Mini-SIM card, adhering to the standard practice of its time.

Display Features

Equipped with a 1.8-inch TFT display, the Nokia 1661 showcases 65K colors, boasting a screen resolution of 128 x 160 pixels at approximately 114 ppi density. Despite the modest screen-to-body ratio of around 21.0%, the display was sufficient for basic operations like viewing SMS messages and simple graphics.

Memory and Storage

The Nokia 1661 comes with 8MB of internal storage, which might seem limited by today's standards, but was adequate for its primary function of calling and messaging. It does not support a memory card slot. The phonebook can store up to 500 entries, and call records include 20 dialed, received, and missed calls each. This facilitates handling essential communications without overwhelming the memory.

Sound and Audio Options

The phone includes a built-in loudspeaker but does not offer a 3.5mm headphone jack. While this limits the use of personal audio devices, the loudspeaker caters to the need for hands-free calls or listening to the FM radio, a feature the phone supports. The radio was a significant addition, providing entertainment and news coverage.

Communication Features

In terms of communication, the Nokia 1661 features SMS messaging with storage for up to 250 messages, allowing adequate capacity for managing text message communication. The phone does not include an internet browser or Java support, remaining steadfast in its role as a classic feature phone devoid of modern connectivity.

Battery and Power Management

Powered by a removable Li-Ion 860 mAh battery (BL-4C), the Nokia 1661 offers up to 475 hours of standby time and up to 4 hours and 10 minutes of talk time. This battery life was competitive for its category, ensuring users could rely on the device throughout the day without the need for frequent recharging.

Miscellaneous Features

Available in black and grey, the Nokia 1661 was not just a tool but also a style statement. Its design was simple, yet it appealed to users for its straightforwardness. SAR ratings vary, with a notable 1.31 W/kg for head exposure and 0.60 W/kg for body, which is within safe limits. At an approximate price of 30 EUR, the Nokia 1661 represented value for money.

Concluding Thoughts

The Nokia 1661 exemplifies the era of feature phones that prioritize basic communication over smart capabilities. With sturdy construction, reliable battery life, and fundamental features, it served the needs of users seeking efficiency and simplicity. Although it has been discontinued, it remains a nostalgic piece of technology history.