Philips X526 Comprehensive Review of Specs Price Pros & Cons

Overview of Philips X526

The Philips X526, launched in July 2011, was a mobile device that blended basic mobile functionality with a few advanced features for the time. Despite being discontinued, the phone has left a mark for its simplicity and efficiency in communication.

Network Capabilities

The X526 supports GSM technology which was predominant in its time. It could operate on multiple 2G bands: GSM 900, 1800, and 1900 MHz for SIM 1. The phone also supported GPRS class 12, allowing for basic data connectivity. However, it lacked EDGE support, which limited higher speed data transfer.

Physical Build and Design

Built with durability in mind, the X526 measures 109 x 53.6 x 18.5 mm and weighs 126 grams. It features a sturdy body capable of withstanding everyday wear and tear. The device supports Dual SIM functionality, a practical trait for users who maintained separate lines for personal and professional use.

Display Characteristics

Philips equipped the X526 with a 2.8-inch TFT display capable of showing up to 256K colors. With a screen resolution of 240 x 320 pixels and a 4:3 aspect ratio, the X526 provided a decent display for viewing texts and images indoors.

Memory and Storage

The X526 came with sparse internal memory—only 1MB—but it included a miniSD card slot expandable up to 16GB for additional storage. This feature was particularly useful for users who required extra space for photos and other multimedia content. The phone's capabilities included storing an extensive phonebook with photo call capabilities and maintaining detailed call records.

Camera Features

The phone sported a single 2MP main camera complemented by an LED flash. It allowed users to capture basic photography and record videos at CIF quality at 15fps. Although modest by today's standards, this feature set was suitable for capturing everyday moments.

Audio and Sound Options

Sound fidelity was supported with a built-in loudspeaker, despite lacking a 3.5mm audio jack. This omission meant that users had to rely on Bluetooth or device-based peripherals for private listening. Philips incorporated FM radio, adding entertainment value, especially in areas with strong reception.

Connectivity

The connectivity features of the X526 included Bluetooth 2.0 with A2DP for wireless audio streaming. It lacked WLAN and GPS positioning but included a miniUSB 1.1 port for connectivity and synchronization with other devices.

Software and Applications

Operating as a feature phone, the X526 supported Java MIDP 2.0, which allowed the installation of basic Java applications and games. Messaging features covered SMS (threaded view), MMS, email, and instant messaging.

Battery Performance

A removable Li-Ion 1200 mAh battery powered the device, offering remarkable standby time of up to 720 hours and talk time up to 10 hours. Such battery longevity was a selling point, reducing the frequency of charging in daily use.

Miscellaneous Features

Aesthetically, the X526 was simple, available in a professional Silver/Black color choice. Despite its discontinuation, fans of reliable, straightforward communication devices regard it fondly.

In summary, the Philips X526 is representative of the transitional phase of mobile phone technology, straddling basic voice communication and emerging data-driven capabilities. Its practical attributes captured user interest, offering a balance of essential communication tools and minor extras for enhanced user experience.