Philips X320 Complete Guide to Specs Prices Pros & Cons

Device Overview

The Philips X320 was a feature phone launched in late 2009. Despite being discontinued, it remains an interesting device for enthusiasts interested in older mobile technologies. The phone was designed to provide basic functionality at a time when smartphones were just beginning to gain popularity. It offered fundamental features typical of that era, such as GSM connectivity, a basic camera, and support for SMS and MMS messaging.

Design and Display

The Philips X320 featured a classic candy bar design, which was prevalent among mobile handsets at the time. Although specific dimensions and weight details are not provided, devices from this period usually emphasized portability and ease of use. The phone utilized a Mini-SIM card, ensuring compatibility with GSM networks.

The display of the Philips X320 was a 2.2-inch TFT screen capable of displaying up to 256K colors. With a resolution of 240 x 320 pixels and a 4:3 aspect ratio, the screen offered decent clarity for basic functions such as browsing through contacts, reading messages, and viewing simple images. The pixel density of approximately 182 ppi contributed to its adequate display quality in its category.

Camera

The Philips X320 was equipped with a single rear camera of 2 megapixels. It was a standard specification for phones of this caliber at the time, providing users with the ability to capture basic photographs. Although it lacked advanced features seen in modern smartphone cameras, it was suitable for snapping quick pictures. The camera also supported video recording with QCIF quality at 15 frames per second, primarily for capturing short video clips.

Memory and Storage

With only 5MB of internal storage, the Philips X320 was limited in terms of capacity. Nevertheless, it accommodated a microSD card slot, enabling users to expand storage and manage files more efficiently. This feature was invaluable for saving photos, music, and additional applications.

The phonebook of the Philips X320 allowed up to 1000 entries, supporting photo call functionality. Regarding call logs, the phone maintained records of the last 30 received, dialed, and missed calls.

Network and Connectivity

The Philips X320 operated on GSM networks with support for 2G bands (GSM 900, 1800, 1900). It featured Class 12 GPRS and Class 10 EDGE technologies, which provided basic internet connectivity. However, high-speed data access complementary to modern phones was not available on this device.

In terms of connectivity options, the phone supported Bluetooth 2.0 with A2DP, enabling users to connect wireless headphones or share data with compatible devices. Unfortunately, there was no WLAN support. The miniUSB 1.1 port facilitated charging and data transfer functions.

Multimedia and Additional Features

The Philips X320 came with an FM radio and RDS support, which allowed users to tune into their favorite radio stations. Additionally, it featured a built-in antenna and a recording option for capturing live sessions from the radio.

In terms of customization, the phone supported Java MIDP 2.0, allowing users to download additional games and applications that were compatible with Java technology.

The messaging features included SMS in threaded view format, MMS, and Email, catering to various communication needs. It also equipped a WAP 2.0/xHTML browser for basic web browsing capabilities.

Sound and Audio

Audio capabilities on the Philips X320 included a loudspeaker, suitable for hands-free calls or listening to media. However, there was an absence of a 3.5mm audio jack, limiting the options for connecting standard wired headphones. Users had to rely on Bluetooth connectivity for wireless audio solutions.

Battery Life

The Philips X320 housed a removable Li-Ion 1050 mAh battery. The battery life was one of its selling points, with a standby time of up to 720 hours and talk time of up to 8 hours and 30 minutes. This provided users with excellent longevity between charges, essential for users relying on their phones throughout the day.

Launch and Availability

The device was announced in November 2009 and hit the market in December of the same year. Despite being subsequently discontinued, it remains a device of curiosity for technology aficionados due to its blend of functionality and simplicity, characteristic of feature phones from that period.

Conclusion

In summary, the Philips X320 was an archetypal feature phone suited to individuals who required basic mobile functionalities without the complexities of modern smartphones. With essential features like a camera, expandable storage, and long battery life, it catered well to users at the time. Though it lacks advanced capabilities, the Philips X320 stands as a reminder of the mobile technology standards of its day, appreciated by those with an interest in the evolution of mobile phones.