Panasonic X500 Unveiling Features Pricing Pros & Cons

Network and Connectivity

The Panasonic X500, released in Q2 of 2004, operates on GSM technology which is widely supported across the globe. It is compatible with GSM 900 and 1800 bands, which are commonly used in various regions. The device supports GPRS Class 8, providing basic internet connectivity, though it does not support EDGE technology, limiting its data speed capabilities. The absence of contemporary connectivity options such as Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and advanced positioning systems reflect the period in which it was released.

Design and Build

The Panasonic X500 is compact, with dimensions measuring 85 x 47 x 22.5 mm and a weight of only 96 grams. This easy-to-handle size made it ideal for single-hand usage and convenient carrying. The phone was available in three colors: Silver, Red, and White, catering to a range of aesthetic preferences. The device uses a Mini-SIM card, consistent with the technology trends of that era.

Display

Featuring a TFT display, the Panasonic X500 could present up to 65K colors, a standard for phones at the time. Its screen resolution is 128 x 128 pixels, arranged in a 1:1 ratio, which facilitated the display of basic menus and applications. Although the exact size of the screen is not specified, phones of this era typically featured a display size that complemented their compact dimensions.

Memory and Storage

The Panasonic X500 offered 4MB of internal storage, which was sufficient for basic phone functionality, including storing limited contacts and messages. The device did not support expandable storage options like SD cards, thus restricting its capacity for multimedia content. However, it supported a phonebook and call records, allowing users to store contact information and maintain call logs for dialed, received, and missed calls.

Camera

The device came equipped with a VGA camera, allowing users to capture photos and record videos—a notable feature at its price point during its release. With a resolution similar to 0.3MP, the camera was capable of producing basic images. This feature was essential for users looking to capture quick moments, although the quality was rudimentary by today’s standards.

Sound and Alerts

The X500 lacked a loudspeaker and 3.5mm audio jack, typical of basic feature phones during that timeframe. Yet, it supported vibration alerts and downloadable polyphonic ringtones. Users could also compose their ringtones, adding a personalized touch to their device's auditory notifications.

Communication Features

In the realm of communication, the X500 supported SMS, EMS, and MMS messaging formats, crucial for text-based communication. Moreover, the device integrated a WAP 2.0/xHTML browser, enabling users to access the internet with limited capabilities, suitable for browsing low-complexity sites available at that time.

Games and Java Support

For gaming enthusiasts, the Panasonic X500 included two pre-installed games with the option to download additional games. Its Java support, specifically MIDP 2.0, allowed more complex applications and games to run on the device compared to predecessors with no Java support.

Battery and Performance

Powered by a removable 730 mAh Li-Ion battery, the device could sustain stand-by time up to 200 hours and a talk time of up to 7 hours. This battery performance was adequate for typical usage patterns at the time, prioritizing talk time and basic phone functionality over multimedia usage.

Conclusion

The Panasonic X500 is a quintessential example of early 2000s mobile technology. It reflects a time when basic connectivity, modest multimedia capabilities, and core communication functions were the priority. Despite its limited capabilities by modern standards, it offered a reliable and compact solution for communication needs during its time.