Samsung A200 Unveiling Specs Prices & ProsCons

Introduction to Samsung A200

The Samsung A200, launched in 2001, was a defining feature phone of its time. With its simplistic design and basic functionalities, it catered to users who sought reliable communication without the complexities of modern smartphones. Though discontinued, the A200 remains a nostalgic device for many, reflecting an era where mobile phones were primarily meant for calls and text messages.

Design and Build

The Samsung A200 featured a compact and ergonomic design. Measuring 79 x 38 x 23 mm and weighing only 77 grams with a slim battery, it was pocket-friendly and easy to carry around. Available in three colors - White Pearl, Champaign Gold, and Silver - it offered a touch of elegance despite its basic nature. The device utilized a Mini-SIM, typical of the era's mobile devices.

Display

The A200 came with a grayscale graphic display capable of showing 4 shades. Though the exact size of the display isn't specified, the resolution was 128 x 64 pixels with an 18:9 ratio. This basic display was suitable for navigating through simple menus and reading SMS messages, a standard for feature phones of its time.

Network and Connectivity

The device supported GSM technology, operating on GSM 900/1800 bands. However, it lacked GPRS and EDGE capabilities, indicating it didn't support data connectivity—a typical limitation of early feature phones. There were no wireless technologies like WLAN, Bluetooth, or positioning system integrated with the device, underscoring its primary focus on voice communication over internet connectivity. Additionally, it did not include a radio feature or USB port, simplifying its design further.

Memory and Storage

Internally, the Samsung A200 was limited by modern standards. It did not offer a memory card slot for expandable storage. The phonebook capacity was capped at 100 entries, with options to organize them into 5 contact groups. Call records maintained logs of the last 10 dialed, received, and missed calls, providing users essential call tracking capability.

Sound and Alert Features

Sound options on the A200 were basic. It lacked a loudspeaker and a 3.5mm headphone jack, but supported monophonic ringtones and a composer for custom ringtones. Vibration alerts were also part of the alert system, offering users a silent notification option.

Messaging and Browser

The messaging capabilities were restricted to SMS, reflecting the primary communication method of mobile devices at the time. For those interested in early mobile internet access, the A200 included a WAP 1.1 browser, which could render simple web pages albeit at a slow speed in today’s context.

Battery Life

The device was powered by a removable Li-Ion battery, delivering a standby time of up to 70 hours and a talk time of approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes. This battery life was considered reasonable for a device mainly used for calls and messaging.

Additional Features

The Samsung A200 provided users with essential features such as a clock, alarm, and a set of built-in games. Although it did not support Java for additional game and app downloads, the included games provided basic entertainment options. Sensors were not present, which aligned with the minimalistic approach for phone functionalities during this period.

Conclusion

In summation, the Samsung A200 epitomized the straightforward and efficient design of early 2000s mobile phones. While lacking modern smartphone features such as a high-resolution camera, internet connectivity, and extensive app ecosystems, it offered robust voice call quality and simple SMS capabilities. The A200’s discontinued status only enhances its nostalgic value, standing as a testament to a time when connecting with others meant just making a call or sending a text.