Unveiling Samsung Ativ Odyssey I930 Specs Prices Pros & Cons

Network Capabilities

The Samsung Ativ Odyssey I930 boasts a versatile range of network technologies, making it a competent device for its time. It supports multiple network bands, including GSM, CDMA, HSPA, EVDO, and LTE. The 2G bands cover CDMA 800 and 1900, while the 3G band accommodates CDMA2000 1xEV-DO, ensuring robust connectivity options. Additionally, the phone offers 4G LTE connectivity which was becoming a standard at its time, providing faster internet speeds and improved call quality. The support for EV-DO Rev.A with a speed of up to 3.1 Mbps also ensures that users have reliable network performance.

Launch and Status

Announced in January 2013 and released shortly afterward, the Samsung Ativ Odyssey I930 entered the market during a time of fierce competition among smartphones. However, despite its strong entry, the device has since been discontinued. Its launch was part of Samsung's endeavor to diversify its product line with Windows Phone, aiming to capture a segment of users interested in the Windows ecosystem.

Design and Build

Constructed with dimensions of 122.4 x 63.8 x 10.9 mm and weighing 125 g, the Samsung Ativ Odyssey I930 is a compact and lightweight device. These characteristics make it easy to handle and carry, fitting comfortably in the pocket. The design incorporates a micro-SIM card slot, maintaining a focus on simplicity and functionality. The phone is offered in a sober gray color, appealing to users who prefer understated aesthetics.

Display

The device features a 4.0-inch Super AMOLED display, which was quite a standard offering in its time. With a screen-to-body ratio of approximately 58.3%, the display size makes the device compact yet effective for typical smartphone tasks. The resolution of 480 x 800 pixels translates to a density of around 233 ppi, delivering decent sharpness and clarity. Super AMOLED technology ensures vibrant colors and deep blacks, enhancing the overall visual experience for media consumption and general use.

Platform and Performance

Operating on Microsoft Windows Phone 8, the Samsung Ativ Odyssey I930 offers a different user experience compared to the Android-dominated market. The phone is powered by a Qualcomm MSM8960 Snapdragon S4 Plus chipset featuring a dual-core 1.5 GHz Krait CPU and an Adreno 225 GPU. This combination provides adequate performance for daily tasks, app usage, and moderate gaming. While not at the forefront of mobile performance at the time, it successfully caters to users requiring stable and consistent activity.

Memory and Storage

The device comes with 1 GB of RAM, which was typical for budget and mid-range smartphones during its release. For storage, it includes 8 GB of internal memory, which might be limiting for power users. However, the support for microSDXC via a dedicated slot allows users to expand storage options significantly, accommodating additional apps, photos, and media files.

Camera Capabilities

Equipped with a 5 MP rear camera, the Samsung Ativ Odyssey I930 captures decent photos, sufficient for casual photography needs. Autofocus aids in capturing clearer images, while an LED flash supports low-light conditions. It also records 1080p videos at 30fps, adding value to its camera capabilities. The front-facing camera is 1.2 MP, adequate for video calls and basic selfies. It also allows for 720p video recording, enhancing its utility for photos and video on social media platforms.

Audio and Connectivity

The phone includes a loudspeaker and a 3.5mm jack, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of audio accessories. In terms of connectivity, it supports Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n, dual-band, Wi-Fi Direct, DLNA, and hotspot features, providing versatile wireless network options. Bluetooth 3.1 with A2DP ensures seamless connection to wireless devices. The device also features GPS and GLONASS for precise location tracking, and NFC support adds another layer of connectivity options for data transfer and mobile payments. The absence of a radio might be a downside for some users; however, the microUSB 2.0 port serves as the primary physical connection for charging and data transfer.

Sensors and Additional Features

The Samsung Ativ Odyssey I930 is equipped with an array of sensors, including an accelerometer, gyro, proximity sensor, and compass, enriching its functionality. These sensors enhance user interaction by enabling varied applications and usability features, such as auto-rotation, gesture-based controls, and orientation detection in maps.

Battery Life

Powering the device is a removable Li-Ion 2100 mAh battery, which provides ample energy for a full day of typical usage. The standby time of up to 168 hours and talk time of up to 19 hours indicate that the device is well-suited for daily tasks without needing frequent charging, a strong point for mobile users always on the go.

Price and Market Positioning

Priced around 200 EUR during its release, the Samsung Ativ Odyssey I930 positioned itself in the affordable segment of smartphones, offering value for money with its features and capabilities. The model targeted users looking for a reliable smartphone without breaking the bank, emphasizing its competitive pricing as a selling point.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Samsung Ativ Odyssey I930 served as a competent device in its time, delivering a balanced performance with its practical features and the unique Windows Phone platform. Despite the limitations in comparison to flagship models, its affordability, solid build, and essential functionalities made it a favorable choice for users within its market segment. By offering reasonable specifications and a dependable user experience, it exemplified Samsung's strategy to diversify within different OS ecosystems and target broader audiences.