Nokia Asha 500 Dual SIM The Complete Specs & Value Analysis

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The Nokia Asha 500 Dual SIM operates on GSM technology, which is a well-established standard for mobile communications. The device supports GSM 900/1800 bands for both SIM 1 and SIM 2, ensuring good connectivity in various geographical regions where these bands are prevalent. The phone offers GPRS support up to 42.8 kbps and EDGE support reaching speeds up to 236.8 kbps, enabling users to perform basic internet browsing and data services.

Launch

Announced in October 2013, the Nokia Asha 500 Dual SIM was released later that year in December. It marked another entry into Nokia's line of feature phones, which were quite popular at the time due to their affordability and simplicity. Despite its initial popularity, the device is now discontinued, reflecting the rapid pace of technological development in the mobile phone industry.

Body

The physical dimensions of the Nokia Asha 500 Dual SIM are 100.3 x 58.1 x 12.8 mm, making it a compact device that fits comfortably in the hand. Its weight of 101.3 g ensures easy portability. The phone features a dual-SIM setup with Micro-SIM, allowing users to switch between two different networks without having to carry a second device. The form factor was designed to appeal to users looking for a practical and straightforward mobile experience.

Display

The device possesses a TFT display capable of showing 256K colors, which delivers vibrant visual output considering its class. The screen size measures 2.8 inches, with a resolution of 240 x 320 pixels, resulting in a pixel density of approximately 143 ppi. Although modest by today's smartphone standards, the display is suitably clear for everyday tasks such as texting, calling, and casual browsing.

Platform

The Nokia Asha 500 utilizes the Nokia Asha software platform 1.1.1. This operating system was tailored to optimize the performance of Asha devices, providing a user-friendly interface and access to basic applications. This OS supports apps like social media, simple games, and web browsers specifically created to run smoothly on feature phones.

Memory

The Asha 500 is equipped with 64MB of RAM and features a microSDHC card slot, with a 4GB card included upon purchase. While the internal storage is minimal, the expandable memory option provides additional space for music, images, and other media files. This aspect was particularly advantageous for users seeking an affordable yet flexible storage solution.

Main Camera

The device is equipped with a single 2 MP rear camera, which serves basic photography needs. It supports video recording at 320p@13fps, suitable for capturing simple moments. While it doesn't compare to modern smartphone cameras, it remained functional for users seeking uncomplicated media capabilities from their devices.

Sound

Sound-wise, the Nokia Asha 500 is equipped with a loudspeaker and a 3.5mm headphone jack, which allows users to connect standard headphones or external speakers. This feature supports music lovers who enjoy listening on-the-go and offers decent audio output for its category.

Comms

The phone supports Wi-Fi connectivity (802.11 b/g/n), making it possible for users to connect to local wireless networks for internet access. Bluetooth 3.0 with A2DP support is also available, facilitating file transfers and connection with other Bluetooth-enabled devices. Notably, it does not include GPS or NFC functionality, but it does include a stereo FM radio for users who enjoy traditional media.

Features

In terms of sensors, the phone is equipped with an accelerometer and proximity sensor, providing basic functionality such as autorotation and screen shut-off during calls. These features were typical for feature phones of its time and contributed to a more intuitive user experience.

Battery

The device is powered by a removable Li-Ion 1200 mAh battery (BL-4U), which was standard for feature phones during its release. The battery offers standby time of up to 528 hours and talk time up to 14 hours, with music playback lasting up to 46 hours. These specifications emphasize its efficiency in power management, catering to users who prioritize long battery life over frequent recharging.

Miscellaneous

Available in an array of vibrant colors including Bright Red, Bright Green, Cyan, Yellow, White, and Black, the Nokia Asha 500 offered personalization to reflect individual style. Its SAR ratings are 1.11 W/kg (head) and 0.64 W/kg (head), 0.60 W/kg (body) for the EU, staying within acceptable safety limits. Priced approximately at 60 EUR at launch, the Asha 500 provided cost-effective mobile solutions ideal for those looking for budget-friendly devices.