Philips 650 All Specs Prices Pros & Cons Revealed

Overview of Philips 650

The Philips 650, announced in the second quarter of 2004, is a feature phone that has since been discontinued. Although it is not a smartphone by modern standards, it serves as a reminder of the period when mobile phones were primarily tools for basic communication - calls and text messaging. What follows is a detailed examination of its features, design, and functionality, emphasizing its place in the evolution of mobile phones.

Network and Connectivity

The Philips 650 is engineered to operate on GSM networks, covering frequencies GSM 900, 1800, and 1900. This wide range of frequency support ensured good network reception in various regions. GPRS Class 10 capabilities allowed for data transmission, suitable for basic browsing and MMS messaging, although there was no EDGE support for higher-speed data. Key connectivity features included an infrared port, a common way to transfer data between devices before the widespread adoption of Bluetooth and Wi-Fi.

Design and Build

With dimensions of 88 x 46 x 24.5 mm and a weight of 93 g, the Philips 650 was compact and lightweight. Its design reflected the utilitarian aesthetics of the early 2000s, offering practicality over style. The device supported a Mini-SIM card, and its Executive Grey, Discerning Blue, and White Bond color options were aimed at different personality types and fashion preferences. Despite lacking advanced features, its build was solid, appealing to users who needed a reliable communication device.

Display Characteristics

The Philips 650 comes with an STN display capable of showing 65K colors. While the display resolution was limited to 128 x 160 pixels across 7 lines, it was considered suitable for function-focused devices of the time. This screen type was sufficient for viewing text messages and basic multimedia content. Color displays were a highlight during that era, transitioning from monochrome screens.

Memory and Storage

Internal storage was pegged at 7MB, a minimal amount by today's standards but enough for storing contacts, call logs, and SMS/MMS messages. It offered storage for a 1000-entry phonebook, supporting fields for additional information per contact, and a "Photo call" feature was available, although the phone had no built-in camera. The absence of a card slot meant the storage could not be expanded.

Audio and Alert Features

The Philips 650 included a loudspeaker and supported downloadable polyphonic ringtones. There was no 3.5mm headphone jack, which restricted personal audio listening but was not uncommon in devices of that period. Vibration alerts were standard, providing silent notification options for incoming calls and messages.

Communication and Interface

Messaging options were well-rounded for its time, supporting SMS, EMS, MMS, and even Email, a noteworthy feature for early mobile phones. The device facilitated WAP 1.2.1 browsing, which allowed users limited internet access, mostly for text-based content. A significant plus was the inclusion of Java MIDP 2.0, which enabled users to download Java-based applications and games, extending the device's functionality beyond its native capabilities.

Battery Life

One of the strengths of the Philips 650 was its battery life. The removable Li-Ion 1100 mAh battery offered up to 720 hours of standby time and 8 hours and 3 minutes of talk time. Such extended battery duration was, and still is, a crucial factor for many users in mobile phone selection, particularly for those who prioritize communication needs over entertainment or professional use.

Additional Notes

The Philips 650's lack of a camera, limited audio and connectivity support, and simple design might render it obsolete by contemporary standards, yet it remains a fascinating piece of technological history. This device was designed for a consumer base that required robust means of communication with basic mobile capabilities. The Philips 650 serves as a reminder of the evolutionary journey of mobile devices, from simple portable telephones to the multi-functional smartphones we rely on today.