Samsung B130 Comprehensive Review Specs Pricing Pros & Cons

Design and Build

The Samsung B130 is a compact feature phone that was released in December 2008. With dimensions of 104 x 43.5 x 16 mm and a weight of just 67.5 grams, it is designed to be highly portable. The phone’s small form factor and light weight make it easy to carry in a pocket or purse. It uses a mini-SIM, which was standard for phones during that era. Available in several colors, including Black, White, Red, and Gray, the B130 offers a touch of personalization to suit different preferences.

Display

The device features a CSTN display, a technology commonly used in phones of its class during the time. The display measures 1.52 inches, with a screen-to-body ratio of approximately 16.5%. This compact screen size is adequate for basic functionalities such as dialing and messaging. The display supports 65K colors and has a resolution of 128 x 128 pixels, achieving a pixel density of around 119 ppi. While modest by today's standards, this display was typical for feature phones, prioritizing readability and battery efficiency over high-resolution graphics.

Network and Communication

In terms of connectivity, the Samsung B130 operates on GSM technology, supporting 2G bands GSM 900 and 1800. It incorporates GPRS Class 10 for basic web browsing capabilities, but lacks EDGE technology, which limits data speeds. The absence of modern wireless communication features like Bluetooth, WLAN, or positioning is consistent with its classification as a feature phone. The device does not include a radio function, and its USB connectivity is proprietary, limited to charging only.

Software and Performance

The Samsung B130 runs on a proprietary operating system typical of feature phones at the time. Its primary functions include making calls and sending messages, specifically SMS and EMS. The phone includes a browser supporting WAP 2.0/xHTML standards for minimal internet access, though surfing the web is less practical given the constraints of speed and display size. There are no games or Java support, reinforcing the device’s focus on communication over entertainment.

Memory and Storage

The internal storage of the Samsung B130 is limited to 400 KB, which aligns with its basic functionality. The phone does not support external memory cards, which means users cannot expand its storage capacity. It offers a phonebook that can store up to 200 entries and keeps records of 30 dialed, 30 received, and 30 missed calls. This limited storage is appropriate for those who do not require extensive data on their device beyond essential contact information.

Battery Life

The device is powered by a removable Li-Ion 750 mAh battery, a size suitable for its low-energy-consumption architecture. The battery provides up to 250 hours of standby time and up to 6 hours of talk time. This long battery life is a significant advantage, catering to users who need a reliable device without frequent charging. The ability to remove and replace the battery could add to the longevity of the device as users can swap out worn batteries.

Audio and Alerts

The audio capabilities of the Samsung B130 include a loudspeaker for hands-free calling and alert purposes. The device supports vibration alerts and downloadable polyphonic ringtones, including MP3 formats, although there is no 3.5mm audio jack for headphones. While this limits personal audio options, it aligns with the basic communication focus of the device.

Market Position and Legacy

Announced in September 2008 and released in December of the same year, the Samsung B130 is now discontinued. At its time of release, the device was priced at approximately 30 EUR, positioning it as an affordable option for those desiring a no-frills mobile phone primarily for communication. The device’s SAR rating is 0.65 W/kg (head), meeting safety standards by EU regulations at the time.

Conclusion

While the Samsung B130 may not compete with today's smartphones in terms of features and functionalities, it offers a glimpse into the era of feature phones that served as reliable and straightforward communication tools. Its limited capabilities by modern standards underscore a simplicity that could appeal to users seeking a minimalist mobile experience. The Samsung B130's design emphasizes portability, ease of use, and functionality, making it a relevant choice within its market context at the time of its release.