Price and specifications of Philips Genie db advantages, disadvantages, and a comprehensive explanation

Overview of Philips Genie DB

The Philips Genie DB is a feature phone that was announced in 1999 and is currently discontinued. This device offers basic telecommunication services without the addition of modern smartphone conveniences like internet access, cameras, or high-resolution displays. It was part of the classic GSM phone lineup, showcasing the simplicity of mobile communication in the late 1990s.

Network Capabilities

The Philips Genie DB supports GSM technology, working on 2G bands specifically GSM 900 and 1800. However, it lacks both GPRS and EDGE capabilities, meaning it doesn’t support packet-switched data services and focuses solely on voice communication and text messaging (SMS).

Design and Build

In terms of design, the Genie DB features dimensions of 110 x 54 x 20 mm with a weight of 95 g. It's a compact and lightweight device, making it easily portable. It uses a Mini-SIM card, which was standard at the time. The phone's design emphasizes functionality and simplicity, with a strong focus on durability.

Display

The display of the Philips Genie DB is monochrome and graphic, with a resolution of 100 x 64 pixels and accommodates six lines of text. This type of display was common in feature phones of that era, offering users easy readability of text messages, call logs, and essential phone functions without additional multimedia features.

Memory and Storage

The phone does not support expandable storage via card slots and has a basic built-in memory that supports phonebook entries and call records, up to 10 dialed, received, and missed calls each. The limited memory reflects the device's primary function as a communication tool rather than a multimedia device.

Audio Features

For audio, the Philips Genie DB supports monophonic ringtones, a staple of classic mobile phones. It does not feature a loudspeaker or 3.5mm jack, emphasizing its role as a basic mobile communication device rather than a multimedia hub.

Connectivity

In terms of connectivity, the Philips Genie DB does not offer modern wireless technologies such as WLAN or Bluetooth. It is designed for basic communication tasks, with no support for internet browsing or file sharing through wireless protocols.

Additional Features

The phone includes essential features like clock and alarm functions, and it supports SMS for messaging. However, it lacks a browser, games, or Java support which are found in more advanced mobile devices. This solidifies its position as a no-frills communication device.

Battery Life

The Philips Genie DB is powered by a removable Li-Ion 550 mAh battery. Although relatively modest by current standards, it provided up to 80 hours of standby time and 2 hours of talk time. An optional extended battery offers enhanced performance with up to 525 hours standby and 8 hours talk time, ensuring longer use between charges.

Conclusion

The Philips Genie DB is a quintessential feature phone from the late 1990s, offering basic telecommunication services with robustness and simplicity. Its straightforward design and functionality focus on voice calls and text messaging make it an ideal choice for users seeking a reliable communication device without the complexities of modern smartphones.