Philips Xenium X300 Unveiling Specs Prices Pros & Cons

Overview of Philips Xenium X300

The Philips Xenium X300 is a classic feature phone introduced by Philips in September 2008. Although it has since been discontinued, the device serves as an emblem of the transitional phase in mobile phone technology during the late 2000s, just before smartphones became ubiquitous. Its simple design, essential functionality, and cost-effectiveness made it a popular choice among consumers seeking a straightforward communication device.

Design and Build

The Philips Xenium X300 features a compact and easy-to-hold body. It measures 105 x 44 x 15.8 mm and weighs just 77.5 grams, making it very portable and convenient for everyday use. The device accommodates a mini-SIM card and comes in a classic black color. Its sturdy build is complemented by its simplistic design, which appeals to users who value durability and aesthetics focused on functionality.

Display

Equipped with a 1.75-inch CSTN resistive touchscreen, the Xenium X300 displays 65K colors. With a screen resolution of 128 x 160 pixels and an approximate pixel density of 117 ppi, the screen is adequate for basic tasks and offers modest clarity for viewing messages and navigating the phone’s menu. Though the screen size and resolution are minimal by today's standards, they were quite common in feature phones of its era.

Camera Capabilities

The Philips Xenium X300 includes a VGA main camera, with a resolution of 0.3MP. While it lacks advanced features and video recording capabilities, this camera serves as a functional option for capturing basic photos. By the standards of the time, possessing even a basic camera was a convenient feature, especially for users who did not require high-quality photography.

Performance and Internal Specs

The device operates as a feature phone, which is designed to fulfill essential communication needs without the advanced functionalities of a smartphone. It boasts 3MB of internal storage, although it does not support expandable memory via a card slot. Such limited storage is typical for feature phones, as they are intended primarily for calling, messaging, and basic multimedia tasks.

Battery Life and Performance

One of the most notable features of the Philips Xenium X300 is its battery life. The removable Li-Ion 890 mAh battery provides longevity, ensuring the phone remains operational for extended periods without frequent recharging. This substantial battery performance made it a reliable choice for users who required a dependable phone for calling and messaging throughout the day.

Network and Connectivity

The Xenium X300 supports GSM technology and operates on the 900/1800 MHz bands. It offers GPRS Class 10 for basic data connectivity but excludes EDGE, WLAN, and Bluetooth capabilities. The device includes an FM radio for entertainment, indicative of feature phones of that time, allowing users to enjoy music and news broadcasts on-the-go.

Sound and Multimedia

Sound on the Philips Xenium X300 is facilitated through its built-in loudspeaker. However, it does not feature a 3.5mm headphone jack, which was a minor limitation given the popularity of wired headphones at the time. Its multimedia functionalities are limited to basic ringtones and an FM radio, aligning with its status as a basic feature phone.

Additional Features

The phone includes basic messaging capabilities such as SMS, EMS, and MMS. It also has a WAP browser for limited internet access and offers simple games and Java support for basic applications. These functionalities cater to users seeking fundamental communication tools rather than the wide array of apps and services available on smartphones.

Conclusion

Though the Philips Xenium X300 has been discontinued and may seem outdated by today’s standards, it remains a significant piece of mobile phone history. Its simplicity, dependable battery life, and durable design made it a practical choice for users in the late 2000s. Understanding its features provides insight into the evolution of mobile technology and consumer priorities during that era.