Nokia 8855 InDepth Review and Pricing

Overview of Nokia 8855

The Nokia 8855 was a sleek and stylish mobile phone released during the early 2000s. Known for its elegant design and sturdy build, it quickly became a popular choice for users seeking a combination of functionality and aesthetics. Despite the limitations typical of feature phones from that era, the Nokia 8855 offered a range of basic functionalities that catered to communication needs, making it a noteworthy device in Nokia's lineup.

Design and Build

The Nokia 8855 was renowned for its minimalist design and high-quality construction. The phone's dimensions measured 102 x 46 x 21 mm, making it compact enough to fit comfortably in the hand and pocket. With a weight of 98 g, it was lightweight but still had a solid feel. The device utilized high-quality plastic materials with a brushed black finish, exuding a premium look compared to other phones of its time. The monochrome graphic display added to the classic look, featuring a 5-line resolution that provided clear visibility under various lighting conditions.

Network and Connectivity

As a GSM phone, the Nokia 8855 supported GSM 900 and 1800 bands, catering to global communication standards during its time. Lack of modern connectivity options like GPRS or EDGE might seem limiting by today's standards, but at the time, the primary focus was reliable voice communication. The phone did include an infrared port, a useful feature for short-range wireless data transfer and exchanging contacts or calendar entries with other devices.

Battery Life

The Nokia 8855 was equipped with a removable Li-Ion 1000 mAh battery (BLB-3), which provided reliable power. Standby time ranged between 75 to 225 hours, while talk time was between 3 hours 20 minutes to 4 hours 15 minutes. These specifications ensured that the phone could last through a typical day of usage, which was crucial for users who required consistent mobile connectivity.

Storage and Memory

The device's internal memory allowed storage of up to 250 contacts in its phonebook, a substantial amount for users needing to keep an organized directory. However, there was no card slot for expandable storage, limiting users to the built-in memory capabilities. Additionally, the call record functionality enabled storage of up to 10 dialed, received, and missed calls each, assisting in communication management.

Sound and Alerts

Although it lacked a loudspeaker, the Nokia 8855 managed notifications and alerts through vibration and downloadable monophonic ringtones. The absence of a 3.5mm jack underlined its focus on communication rather than multimedia capabilities, a common trait of feature phones during this period.

Operating System and Interface

Operating on a feature phone system, Nokia 8855 provided basic functionalities and navigation through intuitive button-based controls. Users could send and receive SMS messages, browse the web via WAP, and maintain schedules with clock and alarm features. The device included three basic games, which were a popular form of mobile entertainment at the time.

Market Position and Legacy

Launched in the first quarter of 2002 and later discontinued, the Nokia 8855 was a symbol of reliability and sophistication. Its durability, coupled with Nokia's reputation for quality, helped it solidify a loyal user base. Although it lacked the technological advancements that would soon follow in mobile communication, the device's simplicity and robust build have made it a nostalgic icon for mobile phone enthusiasts.

Features and Specifications

• Technology: GSM
• 2G Bands: GSM 900 / 1800
• Dimensions: 102 x 46 x 21 mm
• Weight: 98 g
• SIM: Mini-SIM
• Display Type: Monochrome graphic
• Resolution: 5 lines
• Phonebook: 250 entries
• Call Records: 10 dialed, 10 received, 10 missed
• Alert Types: Vibration; Downloadable monophonic ringtones
• Infrared Port: Yes
• Messaging: SMS
• Browser: WAP
• Clock and Alarm: Yes
• Games: 3 included
• Battery: Removable Li-Ion 1000 mAh
• Stand-by time: 75 h – 225 h
• Talk time: 3h 20min - 4h 15min
• Color: Black