Philips Fisio 820 Comprehensive Specs Pricing Pros & Cons

Introduction to Philips Fisio 820

The Philips Fisio 820 is a classic mobile phone that was released in 2002. Despite being discontinued, it remains a significant piece of technology history, representing the early 2000s era of mobile communication. The phone combines basic functionality with a simplistic design, which appealed to users during its time of release.

Network Technology

The Philips Fisio 820 operates on GSM technology, specifically in the bands of GSM 900 and 1800. This ensured broad compatibility and reliable connectivity in most parts of the world that used GSM networks during that period. It featured GPRS Class 10 for packet-switched data capabilities but lacked EDGE technology, which limited its data transmission speeds compared to later models.

Launch and Availability

Announced in 2002, the Philips Fisio 820 was welcomed as a functional feature phone. However, like most phones from that era, it was eventually discontinued as newer models with advanced capabilities became available. Despite its discontinuation, some users and collectors might still find an interest in this model due to its nostalgic value.

Body and Design

In terms of design, the Philips Fisio 820 featured dimensions of 98 x 47 x 21 mm and weighed only 85 grams. This made it compact and easy to carry around, fitting comfortably in the user's hand. It used a Mini-SIM card format, which was standard for phones during its time. The phone's design was straightforward yet functional, reflecting the needs of early mobile phone users.

Display

The phone was equipped with an STN screen displaying 256 colors. It came with a resolution of 120 x 130 pixels, spread over 9 lines. While modest by today's standards, this was quite common for feature phones during the early 2000s.

Memory and Storage

There was no card slot available on the Philips Fisio 820, a limitation typical of phones from its era, which relied on internal storage for contacts and messages. It offered a comprehensive phonebook capacity of 500 entries, supporting photo call functionality. Additionally, it kept records of up to 10 dialed, 10 received, and 10 missed calls.

Sound and Alerts

The device lacked a built-in loudspeaker and a 3.5mm audio jack, which are now standard in modern devices. However, it had vibration and allowed for downloadable monophonic ringtones, which provided some customization in alert types despite the absence of polyphonic or MP3 ringtones.

Connectivity

While modern smartphones boast a wide array of connectivity features, the Philips Fisio 820 offered basic connectivity options. It did not support WLAN or positioning systems like GPS. However, it had Bluetooth capability, allowing it to pair with other devices for file transfers. It also lacked FM radio and USB connectivity, which are often expected in contemporary devices.

Messaging and Browser

The Philips Fisio 820 supported SMS and email, which were primary means of communication before the advent of smartphones and instant messaging apps. It also featured a basic WAP 1.2.1 browser, enabling users to access minimalistic mobile web services available at the time.

Additional Features

Some additional features included a clock, alarm, and basic organizational tools, which were essential for productivity. Unlike many feature phones today, it did not support games or Java applications, focusing primarily on communication-related functionalities.

Battery Life

The phone was powered by a removable Li-Ion battery, providing up to 400 hours of standby time and up to 5 hours of talk time. This impressive battery life was conducive to the usage patterns of the era, as mobile phones were used primarily for calls and texts.

Miscellaneous

With three color options available, users had minimal but welcome choices to suit personal preferences. Although it lacked the personalization features we see in today's smartphones, the Philips Fisio 820 served its purpose effectively for its time.

Conclusion

The Philips Fisio 820 represents an era of mobile telephony marked by simplicity and essential communication features. Although rudimentary by today’s standards, it is an exemplar of the technological progress of the early 2000s. Collectors and enthusiasts continue to appreciate the Fisio 820 for its historic and sentimental value.