Price and specifications of Samsung A997 Rugby III advantages, disadvantages, and a comprehensive explanation

Samsung A997 Rugby III Overview

The Samsung A997 Rugby III is a feature phone that was first announced in November 2012 and released in December of the same year. The phone, famous for its rugged build, was designed for those who require a reliable device in tough environments. It offered limited advanced smartphone capabilities but made up for it with durability and essential features suitable for basic phone users.

Design and Build

The Rugby III features a robust and sturdy design, characteristic of the Rugby line. With dimensions of 104.1 x 53.3 x 20.3 mm and a weight of 133 grams, it is compact yet feels solid in hand. The mini-SIM device sports a clamshell design, providing a tactile and nostalgic experience. Its rugged build ensures resistance to harsh conditions, appealing to users who work in physically demanding environments or enjoy outdoor activities.

Display

The device comes with a 2.4-inch TFT display offering 256K colors. With a resolution of 240 x 320 pixels and a ~167 ppi density, the screen presents clear and sharp visuals for a feature phone of its era. The 4:3 aspect ratio caters to its simple interface, making it adequate for reading messages, viewing contacts, and navigating the basic menu.

Performance and Platform

Powered by a 468 MHz CPU, the Samsung A997 Rugby III delivers smooth performance for its category. It operates on a basic proprietary operating system that supports essential functionalities like calls, messages, and basic apps. While it cannot compete with the speeds of smartphones, its processor is sufficient to handle the operations expected from a feature phone.

Memory and Storage

The device is equipped with 256MB of internal storage and 128MB of RAM, which accommodates basic apps and user data. It also supports microSDHC cards, enabling users to expand storage capacity for additional contacts, messages, and multimedia. The phonebook supports up to 1000 entries with a photocall feature, while call records can store up to 30 received, dialed, and missed calls.

Camera

The Rugby III houses a 3.15 MP main camera, capable of capturing basic images and videos. While it lacks modern smartphone camera features, the camera serves the purpose of taking quick photographs without advanced editing options. The absence of a selfie camera and advanced imaging capabilities may dissuade users seeking high-quality photography, but it fulfills the needs of users prioritizing simplicity and functionality.

Connectivity

Equipped with basic connectivity options, the Samsung A997 Rugby III supports GSM and HSPA network technologies, including 2G and 3G bands. Connectivity features include Bluetooth 2.1 with A2DP and EDR, providing a means to connect to audio devices wirelessly. However, it lacks WLAN, NFC, and radio capabilities, focusing rather on its strong build and straightforward design.

Battery Life

Fuelled by a removable Li-Ion 1300 mAh battery, the Rugby III offers satisfactory longevity for basic phone users. It provides up to 9 hours of talk time and up to 480 hours of standby time, making it reliable for extended periods without charging. This extended battery life distinguishes it from more power-hungry smartphones and emphasizes its role as a dependable communication device.

Additional Features

The device includes a 3.5mm jack for audio connectivity and supports various messaging formats such as SMS, AMS, MMS, Email, Push Email, and Instant Messaging. Despite its limited gaming library and absent Java support, the phone delivers essential functionalities for users demanding basic communication tools. The lack of advanced sensors and additional apps further simplifies its operations, aligning with its rugged nature.

Discontinued Status and Pricing

Although discontinued, the Samsung A997 Rugby III remains a noteworthy option for those requiring a durable feature phone. Originally priced at around 90 EUR, it offered good value for users prioritizing reliability over modern tech features. The phone is now available through secondhand markets and appeals to a niche audience in need of its robust design and battery life.

Conclusion

The Samsung A997 Rugby III stands as a testament to rugged mobile design, catering to users with specific durability requirements. While it lacks modern smartphone functionalities, its emphasis on essential features, build quality, and long battery life ensures it remains a viable option for users in challenging environments. Its straightforward approach and reliable communication capabilities make it an enduring device despite its discontinuation.