Nokia 6500 Classic Specs Pricing Pros & Cons Unveiled

Introduction to Nokia 6500 Classic

The Nokia 6500 Classic, announced in May 2007 and released in October of the same year, is a noteworthy addition to Nokia's feature phone line-up. Despite its status as a discontinued product, it holds a unique place in the evolution of mobile phones, especially during an era when compact design and essential features were prioritized over the high-end functionalities of today's smartphones.

Network Capabilities

The Nokia 6500 Classic supports GSM and UMTS technology, making it compatible with 2G and 3G network bands. Specifically, it operates on GSM 850/900/1800/1900 and UMTS 850/2100 bands, offering reliable connectivity for calls and basic mobile internet speed of up to 384 kbps. This was quite adequate for the mobile browsing needs during its time of release.

Design and Build

This model measures 109.8 x 45 x 9.5 mm and weighs just 94 grams, making it both compact and lightweight. The thinness of the phone, under 10 mm, added a sense of finesse and modernity to its design, which was distinctively elegant with a robust feel due to its aluminum casing. The use of a Mini-SIM was conventional for the time and added to its practicality.

Display

The Nokia 6500 Classic features a TFT display capable of showing 16 million colors. Although its 2.0-inch screen seems small by modern standards, it was ample for displaying basic information clearly. The resolution of 240 x 320 pixels provided a pixel density of approximately 200 ppi, ensuring that text and images were presented crisply given the technological constraints of the era.

Memory and Storage

In terms of memory, the phone could store up to 2000 contacts along with a photocall feature. The call log capability includes 20 dialed, 20 received, and 20 missed calls, reflecting typical usage patterns. The internal storage of 1GB was substantial for a feature phone, although it lacked the flexibility of a card slot for memory expansion, meaning users had to manage their storage use efficiently.

Camera Features

Equipped with a 2 MP camera, the Nokia 6500 Classic could capture images and video in QCIF format. While rudimentary by today’s standards, it provided an LED flash which enhanced its capability in low-light conditions. This camera was mostly suitable for casual snapping rather than photography enthusiasts.

Audio and Sound

The phone included a loudspeaker and offered various alert types including vibration and downloadable polyphonic, and MP3 ringtones. Notably missing was the 3.5mm headphone jack, a common feature for phones at that time. The absence suggested reliance on Bluetooth (version 2.0, A2DP) for wireless audio solutions.

Connectivity Options

While the Nokia 6500 Classic lacked modern WLAN capability, it supported Bluetooth 2.0 with A2DP for stereo audio and connectivity to other devices. It also had a microUSB port for data transfer and charging. The phone did not include GPS or Radio capabilities, focusing instead on its core functionalities.

Operating System and Apps

As a feature phone, it operated on a proprietary system tailored for simplicity and functionality. Messaging options included SMS, MMS, Email, and Instant Messaging, accommodating the primary communication needs of users then. The WAP 2.0/xHTML browser provided basic access to the internet. Additionally, Java MIDP 2.0 allowed for some game downloads and other Java-based apps.

Battery Life

Powered by a removable Li-Ion 830 mAh battery (BL-6P), the Nokia 6500 Classic offered a standby time of up to 216 hours and a talk time of up to 3 hours and 30 minutes. This long battery life was one of the device's prominent features, supporting its use throughout the day without frequent recharges.

Additional Features

Some additional features included in the phone were customizable themes, downloadable games, and support for Java applications. Although it lacked advanced sensors, the device was designed for durability and practical use in communication and entertainment.

Miscellaneous Information

The Nokia 6500 Classic was available in Black and Bronze colors, catering to varied aesthetic preferences. SAR values communicated safe usage levels, showing 0.92 W/kg for the head and 0.94 W/kg for the body. In Europe, these values were slightly higher, with 1.28 W/kg for the head. At launch, it was priced at approximately 150 EUR, reflecting its positioning within the mid-range segment of the market.

Conclusion

The Nokia 6500 Classic stands as a testament to the transitional phase of mobile technology, merging functional design with nascent connectivity features. Its sleekness, combined with sufficient network capabilities, positioned it as an attractive option for users during its time. While it might not offer the high-tech specifications seen in contemporary devices, it remains a significant piece in the tapestry of mobile telephony history.