Samsung A827 Access Comprehensive Review of Specs Pricing and Performance

Introduction

The Samsung A827 Access, first announced in April 2008, is a classic feature phone that reflects the mobile technology of its time. Although discontinued, it serves as a point of reference for the evolution of mobile devices. Throughout this article, we will explore the various components and specifications of the Samsung A827 Access, the consumer demand it addressed at its release, and its place in the history of mobile communications.

Design and Build

The Samsung A827 Access is defined by its compact form factor and lightweight design, with dimensions of 114 x 58 x 12 mm and weight of just 98 g. Crafted to fit comfortably in the hand, the phone sports a sleek black finish. Despite its plastic body, the device is robust and durable, designed to withstand everyday wear and tear.

The phone operates with a Mini-SIM and uses a removable Li-Ion 1300 mAh battery. Users can anticipate up to 400 hours of standby time and approximately 4 hours of talk time, which was quite substantial for feature phones at the time.

Display Characteristics

In terms of display, the Samsung A827 Access is equipped with a 2.3-inch TFT screen capable of rendering 65K colors. The resolution stands at 320 x 240 pixels, offering decent clarity and brightness for a device of its category. The screen-to-body ratio is around 24.8%, with a pixel density of approximately 174 ppi, which suffices for the simple graphical interfaces and basic multimedia content that a feature phone would support.

Camera Capabilities

The Samsung A827 provides a single 1.3 MP main camera, allowing users to capture basic photos and videos. While it doesn't compare to the high-resolution cameras of modern smartphones, it was a valuable feature for users seeking to document daily activities without the need for a separate camera device.

Memory and Storage

The phone's internal storage is limited to 100 MB, but it features a dedicated microSD card slot, which permits expansion for users wishing to store additional media. The phonebook can accommodate up to 1000 entries and includes a photocall function. Additionally, the call records feature stores details for 30 dialed, received, and missed calls, which aligns with the basic organizational needs of users during the feature phone era.

Network and Connectivity

The Samsung A827 Access uses GSM/HSPA technology for cellular connectivity. It supports 2G bands (GSM 850/900/1800/1900) and 3G bands (HSDPA 850/1900) with a speed capacity of HSPA 3.6/0.384 Mbps. While it lacks advanced data connectivity options like WLAN and additional features such as GPS, it supports Bluetooth 2.0 with A2DP for wireless connectivity, and uses a proprietary USB connection for data transfer and charging.

Audio and Alerts

On the audio front, the device lacks a loudspeaker and 3.5mm jack but includes downloadable polyphonic and MP3 ringtones. It supports basic alert types like vibration and traditional ringtone alerts. These features catered to the mass-market consumer's basic telephony and alert needs in the late 2000s.

Additional Features

Though simple, the Samsung A827 Access includes several noteworthy features. These encompass messaging options such as SMS, MMS, EMS, and Email, alongside a WAP 2.0/xHTML browser for rudimentary web access. The inclusion of Java MIDP 2.0 enables gaming and additional app functionalities, fostering engagement beyond simple communication.

Price and Market Position

At launch, the Samsung A827 carried a price tag of approximately 70 EUR, making it a relatively affordable option for users seeking a basic, reliable mobile device. Its positioning catered to those prioritizing voice communication and essential mobile internet services, reinforcing the transition from traditional mobile phones to more versatile gadgets.

Conclusion

The Samsung A827 Access remains a testament to the era of feature phones, where basic connectivity, communication, and multimedia capabilities met the needs of various users. While it may lack the sophistication and multitasking prowess of today's smartphones, it served its purpose by providing a durable, user-friendly device that supported the communication frameworks of its time. Understanding its specifications and functionality offers insights into the incremental innovations that paved the way for modern smartphones, thereby appreciating the advancements in mobile technology over the past decades.