The Ultimate Guide to Nokia 5130 XpressMusic Specs Prices Pros & Cons

Introduction to Nokia 5130 XpressMusic

The Nokia 5130 XpressMusic is a remarkable feature phone that captivated the market with its unique focus on music and multimedia. Launched in February 2009, this device was part of Nokia's XpressMusic line, which was specifically tailored for music enthusiasts. Despite being released over a decade ago, the Nokia 5130 XpressMusic remains a memorable device for many due to its combination of functionality, design, and cost-effectiveness.

Design and Build

The Nokia 5130 XpressMusic features a classic candy bar design that was popular at the time of its release. Its dimensions measured at 107.5 x 46.7 x 14.8 mm, making it compact and easy to hold. Weighing only 88 grams, it was lightweight and portable. The device was available in several vibrant colors, including Red, Blue, and White Aqua, catering to diverse aesthetic preferences.

Display Characteristics

The phone is equipped with a 2.0-inch display offering a resolution of 240 x 320 pixels. With a screen-to-body ratio of about 24.7%, the display was adequate for the phone's multimedia capabilities. The screen supported 256,000 colors, which was sufficient for viewing images and navigating the user interface with clarity.

Camera Features

Even though the Nokia 5130 XpressMusic was not centered around photography, it included a 2 MP rear camera capable of capturing basic photos and videos with resolution QCIF at 15fps. This feature allowed users to capture moments on-the-go, albeit with limited image quality compared to modern standards.

Storage and Memory

The device came with 30MB of internal storage, which could be considered modest. However, it supported microSDHC cards, with a dedicated slot for expanding storage, and came with a 1GB card included in the package. This expandable storage option was particularly useful for users who enjoyed transferring and storing music files.

Music and Sound Quality

As part of the XpressMusic series, the model was engineered with music lovers in mind. It featured a 3.5mm audio jack, allowing users to connect their favorite headphones, and a loudspeaker that delivered impressive sound for a device of its size. The phone supported a variety of audio formats and could deliver up to 21 hours of continuous music playback, courtesy of its efficient battery life.

Connectivity Options

For connectivity, the Nokia 5130 XpressMusic provided Bluetooth 2.0 with A2DP, enabling wireless connections with other Bluetooth-enabled devices. It also sported a microUSB 2.0 port for data transfer and charging. Unfortunately, it did not include WLAN capability, which was a common limitation for feature phones of its era.

Battery Performance

The device was powered by a removable Li-Ion 1020mAh battery, model BL-5C. On a full charge, it could last up to 288 hours on standby, offer a talk time of up to 6 hours, and provide extensive music playtime up to 21 hours. This considerable battery life was one of its standout features, especially for users focused on multimedia usage.

Network Capabilities

The Nokia 5130 XpressMusic supported GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 bands, allowing for broad coverage in terms of network connectivity. It enabled GPRS Class 32 and EDGE Class 32 for data transfer, facilitating basic internet browsing and messaging services such as SMS, MMS, and Email.

User Interface and Operating System

Running on a feature phone operating system, the Nokia 5130 XpressMusic utilized a straightforward and user-friendly interface. It supported popular applications and games through Java MIDP 2.1, enhancing the device's functionality beyond basic cellular operations. The browser options included WAP 2.0/xHTML, HTML, and Adobe Flash Lite, which enabled users to access lightweight web content.

Additional Features

Beyond its core functionalities, the Nokia 5130 XpressMusic included an FM stereo radio with RDS, adding to its entertainment quotient. Various games were pre-installed with the option to download more, and its phonebook could store up to 2000 entries, supporting photocall features. The device also managed call records and allowed for personalization through different downloadable themes and ringtones.

Market Impact and Legacy

Upon its release, the Nokia 5130 XpressMusic was praised for its affordability and rich multimedia features, capturing the interests of young consumers and music fans. Its legacy is marked by its simplicity, durability, and focus on user enjoyment without the complexities associated with smartphones. While it has been discontinued, the Nokia 5130 XpressMusic remains a nostalgic device for those who owned it and is remembered as a crucial player in the evolution of music-focused mobile phones.

Conclusion

Despite its discontinuation, the Nokia 5130 XpressMusic showcased Nokia's dedication to producing innovative and consumer-friendly mobile devices. Its strengths lay in offering an enjoyable multimedia experience, extensive battery life, and customizable options for personalization. The device holds a special place in mobile history as a beloved choice for music lovers and a symbol of an era when feature phones reigned supreme.