Nokia Asha 503 Comprehensive Review of Features Pricing Pros & Cons

Introduction to Nokia Asha 503

The Nokia Asha 503 is a smartphone that was introduced to the market in October 2013. It represents one of the final efforts by Nokia to capture the budget-friendly smartphone segment before transitioning to its Windows Phone series. Although it has been discontinued, the Asha 503 is fondly remembered for its affordability and efficient performance, particularly in emerging markets.

Design and Build

The Nokia Asha 503 boasts a compact design, measuring 102.6 x 60.6 x 12.7 mm and weighing only 110.2 grams. Its plastic body is wrapped in a dual-layer polycarbonate shell which was distinctive for its glossy, transparent outer layer that added aesthetic appeal. The device supports a Micro-SIM and offers several vibrant color options, including yellow, black, green, red, blue, and white.

Display

As for the display, the Asha 503 sports a 3.0-inch TFT screen with 256K colors, offering a resolution of 240 x 320 pixels. Protected by Corning Gorilla Glass, the screen has a contrast ratio of 635:1. Despite a relatively low pixel density of 133 ppi, the display was adequate for basic smartphone tasks in its class.

Performance

Under the hood, the Nokia Asha 503 runs on the Nokia Asha software platform 1.2. While not specifying RAM or a processor that would compare to modern devices, the Asha 503 was optimized for its software, ensuring smooth performance for day-to-day activities like calling, texting, and using basic apps.

Storage

The phone comes with a dedicated microSDHC card slot and includes a 4 GB card in the package, with the ability to upgrade for additional storage. This feature provided users a cost-effective way to expand their memory capacity to store photos, music, and more.

Camera

Nokia equipped the Asha 503 with a 5 MP single rear camera that comes with an LED flash. The camera is capable of capturing 480p video at 19 frames per second. While it may not compare to modern smartphones, at the time, it was quite competent for capturing moments on the go.

Battery Life

The Asha 503 is powered by a removable 1200 mAh Li-Ion battery (BL-4U), which delivers up to 12 hours of talk time on 2G networks and 4 hours and 30 minutes on 3G. It also announced up to 840 hours on standby in both 2G and 3G modes, alongside a music playback time of up to 34 hours, making it reliable for long-lasting use.

Connectivity and Technology

This smartphone supports GSM and HSPA networks, offering speeds up to HSPA 7.2/5.76 Mbps. While lacking advanced positioning or NFC capabilities, it does offer Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n, Bluetooth 3.0 with A2DP, stereo FM radio, and microUSB 2.0 connectivity.

Sound and Multimedia

The device features a loudspeaker and a 3.5mm headphone jack, ensuring that users can enjoy multimedia content. The audio quality is quite decent for its price range, with clear voice calls and adequate performance in music playback.

Sensors and Additional Features

Equipped with basic sensors like an accelerometer and proximity sensor, the Nokia Asha 503 is simple yet functional. These sensors improve user interaction with the device by providing intuitive operations like touch control adjustments during calls and basic gaming experiences.

Price and Market Position

Initially released at a price of about €90, the Nokia Asha 503 was targeted at customers who sought a reliable and affordable smartphone experience. It was particularly popular in developing markets where price sensitivity was crucial, delivering basic smartphone functions without the premium cost.

Conclusion

The Nokia Asha 503, though now discontinued, remains a notable example of Nokia's efforts to offer affordable smartphones that cater to the needs of budget-conscious consumers. With a solid build, adequate camera, and remarkable battery life for its time, the Asha 503 provided essential features in a compact and colorful package, leaving a lasting legacy in the realm of budget-friendly smartphones.