Nokia 5140i The Complete Guide to Specs Prices Pros and Cons

Overview of the Nokia 5140i

The Nokia 5140i was a feature phone released in the second quarter of 2005. Designed for durability and outdoor use, this phone became a favorite among those who needed a rugged device for their adventures. With a modest set of features compared to modern smartphones, the 5140i was still a marvel in its time, offering unique attributes that set it apart from its competitors.

Design and Build

The Nokia 5140i was built with robustness in mind. Measuring 106.5 x 46.8 x 23.8 mm and weighing 100.8 grams, the phone was not too bulky, yet sturdy enough to handle rough handling. It was designed with a rugged casing that provided dust and splash resistance, making it suitable for outdoor enthusiasts. The device used Mini-SIM technology and was available in three colors: Black, Orange, and Dark Green Transceiver.

Display Features

The phone featured a 1.5-inch CSTN display with 65K colors, which was quite standard at the time for feature phones. The resolution of 128 x 128 pixels provided sufficient clarity for basic tasks and navigation. The screen-to-body ratio of ~14.6% was typical for phones of this category, focusing more on durability than expansive displays.

Camera Capabilities

Equipped with a VGA camera, the Nokia 5140i allowed users to capture basic images and videos. With a resolution of 0.3 MP, it was suitable for capturing simple, spontaneous moments but not for high-quality photography. The lack of a selfie camera reflects the market demand at the time, which prioritized practicality over selfie capability.

Battery Performance

The Nokia 5140i came with a removable Li-Ion 760 mAh battery (BL-5B), offering decent battery life for its size and feature set. Users could expect up to 300 hours of standby time and up to 5 hours of talk time. This extended battery life made it ideal for users who were often away from charging facilities, reinforcing its appeal to outdoor users.

Storage and Memory

The device came with 3.5MB of internal storage, which was reasonable for a feature phone. However, it lacked support for external memory cards, limiting its capacity for media storage. Despite this, it could store an adequate amount of contacts in its phonebook and maintain a call log of 20 dialed, 10 received, and 10 missed calls.

Connectivity and Communication

Connectivity options on the Nokia 5140i were basic, with no Bluetooth or WLAN capabilities. It supported infrared communication, allowing for data transfer with compatible devices. The phone included a stereo FM radio, which was a popular feature for entertainment on the go. The use of a Pop-Port for USB connectivity was a distinct characteristic of Nokia devices at the time.

Network and Performance

The Nokia 5140i operated on GSM technology with support for 2G bands on GSM 900/1800/1900 frequencies. It provided GPRS (Class 10) and EDGE (Class 6) capabilities for mobile internet, which, while slow by today's standards, was sufficient for basic browsing and efficient for checking emails and engaging in instant messaging.

Software and Additional Features

Being a feature phone, the Nokia 5140i did not run a complex operating system but came equipped with essential software functionalities. It supported SMS, MMS, EMail, and Instant Messaging. The WAP 2.0/xHTML browser, while limited, allowed users to perform basic internet tasks.

Entertainment and Applications

For entertainment, the phone was equipped with a few preloaded games such as Bowling and Adventure Race, with the option to download additional Java applications thanks to its support for MIDP 2.0. These features provided users with basic entertainment during downtime or long commutes.

Durability and Usability

The device’s durability was one of its most lauded features. Its resilience against environmental factors made it a preferred choice for those in demanding physical conditions, from construction workers to outdoor adventurers. Its usability was further enhanced by a clear interface and straightforward navigation.

Market Reception and Legacy

The Nokia 5140i was well-received upon release, appreciated for being a feature-rich device in a compact and durable design. It held a unique position in the market, catering to users who valued function over form, and who required a phone that could withstand the elements without sacrificing essential connectivity features.

Conclusion

As a product of its time, the Nokia 5140i exemplifies the mobile technology of the mid-2000s, focusing on durability and basic utility over advanced features. Although discontinued, it remains a nostalgic symbol for many who valued its resilience and functionality. For those who owned it, the Nokia 5140i was more than a phone; it was a reliable companion in both daily and outdoor pursuits.