Nokia N91 Comprehensive Review with Specs Prices Pros & Cons

Network and Connectivity

The Nokia N91 was introduced in the second quarter of 2005. One of the notable features of this device was its network capabilities which supported both GSM and UMTS technologies. The phone supported 2G GSM bands of 900/1800/1900 and a 3G UMTS 2100 band, enabling it to utilize higher data transfer speeds of up to 384 kbps. This was a significant feature at the time, providing users with faster internet browsing and more efficient connectivity options compared to many other phones available in the same period.

Design and Build

The Nokia N91 had a distinct design characterized by its dimensions of 113.1 x 55.2 x 22 mm and a weight of 164 grams (5.78 ounces). This made it a slightly heavier device owing to its substantial hardware specifications encased in a robust shell. The N91 employed a Mini-SIM format, which was the standard during its release. The design incorporated premium metal finishes available in various colors such as Light Blue Chrome, Dark Gray Chrome, and Black, especially for the Music Edition, contributing to its visual appeal.

Display Features

The display of the Nokia N91 featured a 2.1-inch TFT screen capable of displaying 256K colors. With a resolution of 176 x 208 pixels and a ~130 ppi pixel density, the screen offered adequate clarity for its size. Although the display might seem modest by today's standards, it was functional for the device’s primary needs such as browsing, music playback visualization, and basic media interaction.

Platform and Performance

Running on Symbian 9.1 with Series 60 UI 3rd Edition, the Nokia N91 carried a 220 MHz Dual ARM 9 processor. This combination delivered efficient performance for multitasking and handling typical mobile operations of the era. Symbian was one of the leading operating systems at the time, known for its flexibility and effectiveness in resource management, which was crucial for ensuring prolonged battery life and smooth operation on a mobile device.

Memory and Storage

The Nokia N91 came with significant storage options for the time, providing either 4GB or 8GB of internal storage, alongside 64MB of RAM. While there was no expansion slot for memory cards, the built-in storage was substantial, catering to the needs of the target audience who desired a wealth of space for music storage, which was one of the primary selling points of the device. This storage capability, combined with its music features, gave the N91 its nickname as a "music phone."

Camera Capabilities

Equipped with a single 2-megapixel camera, the Nokia N91 could capture still images and also support video recording. This camera specification allowed users to engage in basic photography and video creation. While not advanced by today’s standards, it provided a respectable image quality at the time of release, which was adequate for capturing everyday memories and moments.

Audio and Entertainment

The N91 was heavily marketed as a music-centric device. It featured stereo loudspeakers and a 3.5mm audio jack, a crucial feature for audiophiles. The device supported a wide array of sound alert types including vibration, polyphonic tones, and MP3 ringtones. Furthermore, the N91 included an FM radio which catered to those who enjoyed listening to radio broadcasts. One of the distinguishing features of the N91, particularly the 8GB version, was its support for Bluetooth with A2DP, allowing for stereo wireless audio streaming.

Communication and Connectivity

Communication features of the Nokia N91 were complemented by its Wi-Fi 802.11b/g capability. At a time when mobile internet was expanding its reach, this feature allowed the device to connect to wireless internet networks. It also included a miniUSB 2.0 port for data transfer and charging purposes, maintaining easy connections with other devices such as PCs. However, the lack of GPS meant the phone didn’t support positioning services.

Battery Life

The Nokia N91 housed a removable Li-Ion 900 mAh battery (BL-5C), providing substantial usage times for its features. The battery supported a standby time of up to 190 hours on a 2G network and 170 hours on a 3G network, with talk times of up to 4 hours on 2G and 3 hours on 3G. Additionally, music playback time was up to 10 hours, aligning well with its identity as a music-focused phone.

Price and Market Position

Upon release, the Nokia N91 was priced around 230 EUR, targeting the mid to high-end market segment. This pricing reflected its advanced features, particularly for music enthusiasts and those seeking a device capable of handling multimedia and internet connectivity seamlessly. Despite competition, the N91 managed to carve a niche with its unique combination of storage, audio capabilities, and connectivity, leaving a legacy as a pioneering music phone in Nokia’s extensive catalog.

Legacy

The Nokia N91 remains a memorable device for its contributions to mobile music and connectivity. It demonstrated the shift towards multimedia-centric mobile phones, laying groundwork for future integrations of advanced audio and internet features in smartphones. By combining substantial storage with reliable performance and specialized music functionalities, the N91 holds an important place in the history of mobile phones as an early influencer of what would become standard features in mobile technology.