Nokia 3310 The Ultimate Guide to Features Prices and More

Introduction to Nokia 3310

The Nokia 3310 is a mobile phone that was released in the year 2000 by the Finnish multinational company, Nokia. It became one of the most iconic phones of its time, known for its durability, simplicity, and long battery life. Despite its basic features by today's standards, the Nokia 3310 was a revolutionary device for its era, setting a benchmark for mobile phone design and function.

Design and Build Quality

The Nokia 3310 features a classic and robust design. Its dimensions are 113 x 48 x 22 mm, making it compact enough to fit comfortably in the hand. Weighing just 133 grams, it is lightweight but incredibly sturdy, often famed for its resilience against physical damage. The device is equipped with a monochrome graphic display that shows up to five lines of text, offering users simplicity and clarity.

Network and Connectivity

This phone operates on the GSM 900 / 1800 technology, which was the standard at the time of its release. However, it does not support GPRS or EDGE for data connections. The Nokia 3310 was designed to cover basic communication needs without offering advanced connectivity options such as WLAN, Bluetooth, or USB support. This ensured a straightforward user experience focused on voice calls and SMS messaging.

Launch and Legacy

Announced in 2000 and later discontinued, the Nokia 3310 enjoyed immense popularity during its lifespan. It is often credited with being one of the best-selling phones of all time, selling over 126 million units worldwide. Its legacy lives on as a symbol of reliability and simplicity in mobile communication.

Memory and Storage

The Nokia 3310 does not have an expandable memory option as it lacks a card slot. Instead, it operates using a SIM-only phonebook, which was quite common at the time. It allows users to store a limited amount of call records, specifically eight dialed, received, and missed calls each. Despite this limitation, the phone was well-suited to its target audience who primarily sought effective voice communication.

Sound and Alerts

The phone does not come with a loudspeaker or a 3.5mm audio jack. Alert types include vibration and downloadable monophonic ringtones, which were quite unique in their customizable nature back then, adding a personal touch to the device.

Battery Life and Performance

The Nokia 3310 is powered by a removable NiMH 900 mAh battery and an optional internal 1000 mAh Li-Ion (BLC-2) battery, both offering exceptional battery life compared to modern smartphones. Standby time ranges from 55 to 260 hours, with talk time stretching from 2 hours 30 minutes to 4 hours 30 minutes. This extensive battery life was a key selling point, allowing users prolonged usage between charges.

User Features

The device includes several user-friendly features that were appealing to consumers. It has a clock, an alarm function, and is capable of sending and receiving SMS. A standout feature of the Nokia 3310 was its pre-installed games, including classics such as Snake II, Pairs II, Space Impact, and Bantumi, which provided entertainment for users.

Customization and Personal Touch

One of the notable aspects of the Nokia 3310 was its customizable design. Users could exchange the front and back covers, allowing them to personalize the appearance of their phone. This feature was particularly attractive to younger demographics, contributing to the phone's wide appeal.

Cultural Impact and Nostalgia

Over the years, the Nokia 3310 has garnered a cult following. It is often fondly remembered for its durability and the nostalgia associated with simpler times before the advent of smartphones. In the late 2010s, Nokia even re-released a modern version of the 3310 to capitalize on this sentiment, proving its enduring popularity.

Conclusion

The Nokia 3310 remains a hallmark of mobile phone history. While it might not feature the advanced technology seen in modern smartphones, its legendary durability, simple user interface, and robust battery life make it a timeless classic. Its impact on the mobile industry continues to be felt, making it a beloved piece of technology that transcends its own era.