Panasonic GD55 Comprehensive Review and Pricing Guide

Network and Connectivity

The Panasonic GD55 was primarily built for 2G GSM networks and operated on the GSM 900/1800/1900 bands. It was typical for feature phones of its time not to include high-speed data technologies like GPRS or EDGE, which meant it was primarily used for voice calls and basic messaging. The absence of GPRS also implied limitations in browsing and data access, making the device relied upon more for its primary function - communication through voice and SMS.

Design and Build

Panasonic GD55 was introduced in 2002, and its design was compact and lightweight. This phone had dimensions of 77 x 43 x 17 mm and a weight of only 65 grams, which makes it one of the smallest and lightest mobile phones of its time. The phone's portability was one of its standout features, easily fitting into pockets without inconvenience. It was equipped with a Mini-SIM card slot—a standard for mobiles during that period.

Display

Featuring a graphic display with a resolution of 112 x 64 pixels, the GD55 offered a basic visual interface. The screen was relatively small compared to modern standards, reflecting the technological constraints and user needs nearly two decades ago. The display was sufficient for text and simple graphical elements, responding to the needs of a feature phone without multimedia capabilities.

Memory and Contacts

The Panasonic GD55 did not support external memory cards, which was common for phones of that time. Its internal memory was focused on storing essential data such as phonebook entries, able to store up to 250 contacts. Furthermore, it kept logs for call records, including 20 dialed numbers, 10 received calls, and 10 missed calls.

Audio and Alerts

Sound capabilities on the GD55 included polyphonic ringtones as well as a vibration alert, enabling users to customize their call alerts. However, the phone did not include a built-in loudspeaker or a 3.5mm headphone jack, making it solely dependent on its internal speaker for audio output. The polyphonic ringtone attribute marked a technological step forward from monophonic tones that were prevalent before.

Communication and Internet

The GD55 supported basic communication features like SMS and EMS messaging, but due to its hardware limitations, it lacked more advanced communication technologies. It featured a WAP 1.2.1 browser, which granted minimal internet capabilities, useful for basic text-based web browsing but far from the functionalities we are accustomed to today. Other forms of wireless communication such as WLAN and Bluetooth were not included in this model.

User Interface and Extras

Functionality was at the core of the GD55's limited feature set, emphasizing simplicity. It had essential tools like an integrated clock and alarm, both of which were desirable features for users. The phone also included one game, providing minimal entertainment. Java support was not available, limiting the integration of additional applications or games.

Battery Life

Powered by a removable Li-Ion 720 mAh battery, the GD55 boasted impressive battery life for its time. Stand-by time was up to 230 hours and talk time could extend to 8 hours, highlighting its efficiency in power management. This battery performance was well-suited for everyday usage in voice communications.

Physical Appearance and Variants

Representing early 2000s style, the Panasonic GD55 came in three different colors: Silver, Red, and Pink. Its aesthetic was aligned with the minimalistic and functional trends of mobile phone design during that era, focusing more on utility rather than extravagant design elements.

Conclusion

The Panasonic GD55 exemplifies a significant period in mobile phone evolution, bridging the gap between the crude functionalities of earlier mobile devices and the increasingly sophisticated features that were soon to become the norm. Despite its limitations by today's standards, it served as a reliable communication tool and reflected the technological advancements and consumer needs of its time. Compact, efficient, and straightforward, the GD55 remains a hallmark of early mobile telephony.