Philips Xenium 99++ Comprehensive Specs Pros & Cons

Introduction to Philips Xenium 9@9++

The Philips Xenium 9@9++ is a feature phone that was released during the early 2000s, a period marked by rapid advancements in mobile technology. Despite having basic features compared to today's smartphones, the Xenium 9@9++ stood out in its time for a few key reasons. One of its most remarkable traits was its incredibly long battery life, which was a significant selling point during an era where consumers started to rely heavily on mobile connectivity. In this detailed article, we will explore the various aspects of this classic mobile device.

Design and Build

The Philips Xenium 9@9++ boasted a compact design with dimensions of 108 x 44 x 20 mm and weighed just 93 grams, making it pocket-friendly and convenient for everyday use. The phone's build was robust, with a plastic body available in attractive graphite and silver colors. The design was functional, and its ergonomic shape allowed for comfortable handling.

Display

The phone featured a monochrome graphic display with a resolution of 101 x 80 pixels, capable of displaying up to 8 lines of text. Although primitive by modern standards, the screen was perfectly adequate for displaying messages, phonebook entries, and basic navigation menus. There was no touchscreen functionality, as was typical for phones from this era.

Battery Life

One of the standout features of the Philips Xenium 9@9++ was its exceptional battery life. Equipped with a removable Li-Ion 850 mAh battery, the phone provided up to 810 hours of standby time and up to 7 hours and 30 minutes of talk time. The long-lasting battery made it significantly reliable for users who demanded a phone that could last days on a single charge.

Network and Connectivity

The Xenium 9@9++ supported GSM 900/1800 bands, which were widely used at the time. It was equipped with GPRS Class 10 for basic internet connectivity, though it lacked more advanced features such as EDGE or 3G. Bluetooth, WLAN, and standard USB connectivity options were also absent, with a proprietary port being the only method of connection.

Memory and Storage

This device came with an internal memory configuration suited to its functionalities. It could store up to 500 phonebook contacts, each with multiple fields, and supported photo call features. However, there was no expandable storage option via a card slot, which limited its capacity for storing additional data.

Sound and Alerts

The Xenium 9@9++ featured a loudspeaker and supported vibration alerts, in addition to downloadable polyphonic ringtones for personalization. However, it did not include a 3.5mm audio jack, limiting options for audio output.

Messaging and Software Features

The phone provided basic messaging capabilities, including SMS, EMS 4.0, and Email. A WAP 1.2.1 browser allowed for limited internet access. It also included essential tools like a clock, alarm, and games for entertainment. Although lacking modern apps, these features catered to the fundamental needs of users at the time.

Language Support

Languages available on the Philips Xenium 9@9++ were inclusive of English, Bahasa, Chinese, and Thai, reflecting the brand's intent to reach diverse markets and accommodate a global customer base.

Launch and Availability

Released in the second quarter of 2003, the Philips Xenium 9@9++ entered a highly competitive market. It had a modest run before being discontinued. Despite this, the phone is remembered for setting a high standard for battery performance during its time.

Conclusion

While the Philips Xenium 9@9++ does not compare to contemporary smartphones in terms of capabilities, it was a noteworthy device during its era. Its prominent feature—a remarkable battery life—set it apart from other feature phones and left a lasting impression on users who valued practicality over advanced functionalities. The Philips Xenium 9@9++ serves as a nostalgic reminder of how far mobile technology has come, while also exemplifying the essentials that were once most valued in mobile devices.