Nokia Asha 500 Complete Specs Pricing Pros & Cons

Introduction to Nokia Asha 500

The Nokia Asha 500 was announced in October 2013 and released in December of the same year. Though it is now discontinued, this device was a noteworthy entry in the affordable mobile market segment. With distinctive features and a budget-friendly approach, the Asha 500 was designed to meet the demands of emerging markets and individuals seeking a straightforward mobile experience without the complexities and costs associated with high-end smartphones. Let’s delve into the detailed specifications and features that made the Nokia Asha 500 standout.

Design and Build

The Nokia Asha 500 features a compact design, measuring 100.3 x 58.1 x 12.8 mm and weighing just 101 g. This makes it incredibly portable and easy to handle. The device supports a micro-SIM card and is available in a variety of colors, including Bright Red, Bright Green, Cyan, Yellow, White, and Black, catering to different user preferences. The colorful and bold design of the Asha series was popular among youth and those looking for a phone with a vibrant aesthetic.

Display

The device is equipped with a 2.8-inch TFT screen that displays 256K colors. Although relatively small by modern standards, the display offers a resolution of 240 x 320 pixels, resulting in a pixel density of approximately 143 pixels per inch. The screen-to-body ratio is about 41.7%, which is typical for phones designed in the early 2010s, prioritizing physical portability over expansive screen real estate.

Performance and Software

Under the hood, Nokia Asha 500 runs on the Nokia Asha software platform 1.1.1, which is upgradable to version 1.4. Though the exact processing power details aren't specified, the device includes 64MB of RAM, which is paired with the software to provide a basic, yet functional user experience. The Asha platform was known for its simplicity and ease of use, focusing on essential smartphone functionalities without overwhelming users with unnecessary features.

Camera Capabilities

On the photography front, the Nokia Asha 500 is equipped with a single 2-megapixel main camera, capable of capturing images and recording videos at 320p@13fps. While modest, these specifications were adequate for users requiring a basic camera for casual photography and video recording, particularly considering the device's budget positioning.

Storage and Memory

The device offers 64MB of internal RAM and comes with a dedicated microSDHC card slot, accompanied by a 4GB memory card included in the packaging. This allows users to expand the storage capacity for additional media files and applications as needed, addressing one of the common limitations of budget mobile devices.

Connectivity and Communication

In terms of connectivity, the Nokia Asha 500 supports GSM technology, operating on several bands (850/900/1800/1900). For mobile data, it supports GPRS with speeds of up to 42.8 kbps and EDGE up to 236.8 kbps. The device has Wi-Fi capabilities (802.11 b/g/n) enabling wireless internet access, as well as Bluetooth 3.0 with A2DP for wireless communication with other Bluetooth-enabled devices. However, it lacks GPS and NFC functionalities. It includes a microUSB 2.0 port for charging and data transfer, adhering to the standard technology at the time of its release. It also features a stereo FM radio, providing users with live access to FM broadcasts.

Audio and Sound

The sound system of the Nokia Asha 500 includes a loudspeaker for audio playback and communication, alongside a 3.5mm audio jack, allowing users to connect standard headphones or external speakers. The inclusion of the FM radio further enhances its audio features, catering to users who enjoy on-the-go music and news consumption.

Battery Life

A significant aspect of the Asha 500's value proposition is its battery life. The device is powered by a removable Li-Ion 1200 mAh battery (model BL-4U), which provides up to 840 hours of standby time, 14 hours of talk time, and 46 hours of music play. Such battery performance was highly favorable, especially for users in regions where power supply issues required a mobile device with prolonged battery life.

Sensors and Additional Features

In terms of sensors, the device is equipped with an accelerometer and proximity sensor, which serve to enhance the user interface and interaction with the phone. These features, while basic, ensure functionality that supports the fundamental smartphone experience, including gesture support and power-saving screen operations.

Market Positioning and Conclusion

At the time of its release, the Nokia Asha 500 was priced at around 60 EUR, appealing to budget-conscious consumers seeking a reliable and colorful mobile experience. It’s suitable not only for individuals transitioning from feature phones to smartphones but also for those needing a secondary phone with straightforward usability. The device balances basic smartphone features with affordable pricing, presenting a practical choice for its intended market.