Sagem MC 959 Full Specs Pricing Pros & Cons

Introduction to Sagem MC 959

The Sagem MC 959 was one of the prevalent mobile phones released in the early 2000s, a time when mobile technology was rapidly evolving but still heavily reliant on basic features. As a feature phone, it catered to users who needed reliable communication tools without the complexity of modern smartphones.

Design and Build

The Sagem MC 959 was compact in size, measuring 116 x 45 x 18 mm and weighing only 95 grams. This made it a convenient size to carry in a pocket or purse, a crucial factor during this era when mobility was becoming increasingly necessary. The device had a sleek design, typical for phones at that time, with a monochrome graphic display that could show up to seven lines of text.

Network and Connectivity

Focusing mainly on communication, the Sagem MC 959 was equipped with GSM technology, supporting GSM 900 and 1800 bands. The absence of GPRS and EDGE meant that the device was entirely tailored for voice calls and basic SMS services, suitable for everyday communication without involving internet features.

Battery Life

The phone was powered by a removable Li-Ion battery with a capacity of 500mAh. While this may seem limited by today's standards, it provided a standby time of up to 150 hours and a talk time of up to 3 hours, sufficient for the users of its time. The removable battery design also allowed users to swap batteries easily, extending the device's usability between charges.

Storage and Memory

The internal memory of the Sagem MC 959 did not support card slots for additional storage, a feature common in feature phones of that era. It held a phonebook capacity of up to 250 entries, catering well to the business and personal contacts of users. The lack of call record storage indicated the phone's focus on its primary function – making and receiving calls.

Sound and Alerts

The phone featured a loudspeaker and supported downloadable monophonic ringtones, which were quite popular at the time. Vibration alerts, alongside customizable ringtones, offered users a variety of ways to receive notifications, albeit limited compared to today’s multimedia capabilities.

Additional Features

As a basic feature phone, it came with pre-installed basic games, a clock, and an alarm which were essential utilities for users. Although it lacked the functionality provided by modern operating systems and apps, features like SMS messaging were crucial for communication outside of voice calls.

Build Quality and Longevity

The robust build of the Sagem MC 959 ensured its durability under typical usage conditions of the time. Despite its discontinuation, these phones were known for their resiliency, often surpassing newer models in longevity, especially given the simplicity and reduced technical malfunctions due to fewer features.

Legacy and Impact

While Sagem is no longer a dominant player in the mobile phone industry, phones like the MC 959 highlight a transitional period in mobile technology. They reflect the priorities of an era where simplicity, reliability, and voice communication reigned supreme. The Sagem MC 959 is a testament to the technological ethos of the early 2000s, focusing closely on facilitating communication efficiently while remaining accessible to a broad audience.

Conclusion

The Sagem MC 959 offers a nostalgic glimpse into mobile technology’s past state, embodying the straightforward approach of early mobile phones. With its robust construction, sufficient battery life, and emphasis on core communication functions, it remains a noteworthy part of the evolution of mobile devices. As mobile technology continues to advance, devices like the Sagem MC 959 serve as reminders of a simpler time in personal communication.