Philips X500 Comprehensive Review of Features Pricing and Pros & Cons

Design and Body

The Philips X500 features a compact and portable design, measuring 105.6 x 42.4 x 17.9 mm and weighing in at just 110 grams. Its form factor is tailored to fit comfortably in the hand, offering ease of use that aligns with its portable nature. The device is equipped with a Mini-SIM slot, ensuring compatibility with the most basic network providers. Its robust build may not offer the sleekness of modern smartphones, but it provides durability that appeals to users seeking a simple, reliable handset. The available color scheme, Black on Gray, lends it a classic and understated look suitable for a variety of personal styles.

Display

The X500's display utilizes a TFT technology capable of showcasing 256K colors, providing a basic yet functional visual experience. The screen size stands at 1.8 inches with a resolution of 176 x 220 pixels, equating to a pixel density of approximately 157 pixels per inch. While these specifications might not match up with contemporary devices, they offer sufficient clarity for the essential tasks this phone is designed to handle, such as navigating menus and reading messages.

Camera Features

Equipped with a single 1.3 MP main camera, the Philips X500 allows users to capture simple photos on the go. With video recording capabilities at 128x96 pixels and 15 frames per second, it provides basic multimedia functions without the sophistication of higher resolution or multi-camera setups. Although this may limit professional photography, it is perfectly adequate for quick, spontaneous snapshots.

Memory and Storage

Internally, the Philips X500 offers 10 MB of storage. This might seem sparse compared to modern standards, but it is supplemented by a dedicated microSD slot, allowing users to expand storage capacity externally as needed. The phonebook feature supports a reasonable number of contacts, while call records can log the last 30 received, dialed, and missed calls, catering to the essential communicative needs of users.

Network and Connectivity

The X500 operates on GSM technology, covering 2G bands including GSM 900, 1800, and 1900, making it suitable for basic mobile communications. Connectivity options are straightforward, with Bluetooth 2.0 supporting wireless file transfer and stereo audio through A2DP. However, the absence of WLAN and advanced GPS features confines the device to basic communication needs. The inclusion of stereo FM radio with RDS expands its multimedia capabilities, while miniUSB 1.1 offers potential for charging and data transfer with compatible devices.

Performance and Operating System

As a feature phone, the Philips X500 is built to fulfill core communication functions without the complexity of a smartphone operating system. While specific details about the processor and RAM are not specified, the device is designed to deliver satisfactory performance for standard tasks like messaging, calling, and managing basic applications, such as the WAP 2.0/xHTML browser for casual web browsing.

Battery and Power Management

One of the highlights of the Philips X500 is its impressive battery life. The device is powered by a removable Li-Po 1720 mAh battery, which supports up to 1440 hours of standby time and up to 16 hours of talk time. This extended battery performance makes it an exceptional choice for users seeking long-lasting power without the need for frequent recharging, a stark contrast to the rapid battery drainage of many modern smartphones.

Entertainment and Features

In terms of entertainment, the X500 provides three built-in games with the option to download additional titles, thanks to Java MIDP 2.0 support. Messaging capabilities are enhanced with SMS and MMS functionalities, catering to individuals who prioritize messaging in their daily interactions. The absence of a 3.5mm audio jack is notable, yet offsets with the built-in loudspeaker offering adequate audio quality for casual listening.

Additional Information

Launched in October 2008 and later discontinued, the Philips X500 was priced at approximately 150 EUR, making it an affordable option in its category. Its SAR values, recorded at 0.34 W/kg for the head in general and 0.72 W/kg as per EU standards, reflect compliance with standard safety regulations for radiofrequency exposure.

Conclusion

Ultimately, the Philips X500 serves as a reliable communication tool for users seeking simplicity over technological advancement. While it may lack the features of modern smartphones, its durability, impressive battery life, and basic functionality stand out as key advantages. Whether for personal use or as a secondary phone, the X500's design and operational capacity make it a noteworthy choice for those prioritizing straightforward communication over complexity.