Overview of Philips Xenium 9@9s
The Philips Xenium 9@9s is a unique feature phone released in September 2006. Known for its robust battery life and compact design, this device catered to users who needed essential mobile functionalities packaged in a durable and user-friendly form. Although discontinued, its legacy lives on in its impressive battery life and innovative simplicity.
Design and Build
The Xenium 9@9s boasts compact dimensions of 92.8 x 48 x 20.9 mm and a weight of 102.5 g. Its design is both sleek and practical, featuring a classic bar shape that fits comfortably in the hand and pocket. Available in Chrome Black and Silver Chrome, its aesthetic is subtle yet stylish. The device uses a Mini-SIM, affirming its status as a practical and straightforward option for everyday use.
Display
A standout feature of the Philips Xenium 9@9s is its OLED display, capable of showing 256K colors. This vibrant screen enhances the overall user experience despite its resolution of 128 x 160 pixels. Although the exact size of the display is unspecified, its clarity and color depth are considerable for a device from its era.
Camera Features
Integrated with a 1.3 MP main camera, the Xenium 9@9s allows for basic photo capturing and video recording. It doesn't include a selfie camera, aligning with the design and priority of functionality over multimedia options, which was common in phones of that time.
Memory and Storage
The phone offers an internal storage capacity of 18MB, without the option for memory expansion through a card slot. This capacity is suitable for storing essential contacts and messages. The device supports Photocall in its phonebook, and users can maintain a call log with records of 30 received, dialed, and missed calls.
Connectivity
For connectivity, the Philips Xenium 9@9s supports GSM technology, specifically covering 2G bands with GSM 900 / 1800 / 1900. It provides GPRS Class 10 support but lacks EDGE, Bluetooth, WLAN, and radio functionality. Instead, it offers infrared connectivity, which was a typical feature in mobile phones during its time.
Battery Life
One of the most significant features of the Xenium 9@9s is its exceptional battery performance. Powered by a removable Li-Ion 950 mAh battery, it offers an extraordinary standby time of up to 720 hours and a talk time of up to 8 hours and 30 minutes. This longevity makes it an ideal choice for users prioritizing battery life.
Sound and Audio
The device doesn't feature a loudspeaker, enhancing the focus on privacy during calls. It supports vibration alerts, with the capability to download polyphonic and MP3 ringtones for customized notifications. However, it doesn't include a 3.5mm audio jack, which limits the use of standard headphones for music.
Software and User Interface
As a feature phone, the Xenium 9@9s operates on a proprietary system rather than a traditional smartphone OS. It offers messaging options such as SMS, EMS, MMS, and Email. The presence of a WAP 2.0/xHTML browser allows for basic internet browsing. Furthermore, it includes Java MIDP 2.0 support and offers simple games like Brick for entertainment.
Conclusion
The Philips Xenium 9@9s is a testament to the design philosophy of feature phones of its time—emphasizing battery life, durability, and essential functionalities. Although it lacks modern smartphone features, its reliability and practical design make it memorable in the evolution of mobile devices. As technology continues to evolve, the Xenium 9@9s remains a nostalgic reminder of a simpler mobile era focused on fundamental communication.
Key Features of Philips Xenium 9@9s
- Technology: GSM
- 2G Bands: GSM 900 / 1800 / 1900
- Announced: September 2006
- Compact Dimensions: 92.8 x 48 x 20.9 mm
- Lightweight: 102.5 g
- Display: OLED, 256K colors
- Resolution: 128 x 160 pixels
- Internal Memory: 18MB
- Camera: 1.3 MP with Video
- Photocall Phonebook
- Infrared Port
- Messaging: SMS, EMS, MMS, Email
- Browser: WAP 2.0/xHTML
- Java Support: Yes, MIDP 2.0
- Long Battery Life: Stand-by up to 720 h, Talk time up to 8 h 30 min
- Color Options: Chrome Black, Silver Chrome
Philips Xenium 9@9s Main Disadvantages
- Lacks EDGE support for faster data speeds.
- No expandable memory card slot, limited to 18MB internal memory.
- Missing front selfie camera.
- No loudspeaker for hands-free calling or audio playback.
- No standard 3.5mm headphone jack.
- Absence of Bluetooth for wireless connectivity.
- No WLAN capability, limiting internet connectivity options.
- No integrated GPS for location services.
- Limited to proprietary USB connection, reducing accessory compatibility.
- Lack of FM radio feature.
- Discontinued model, may lack support and service.
