Price and specifications of Samsung B320 advantages, disadvantages, and a comprehensive explanation

Overview of Samsung B320

The Samsung B320 was launched by Samsung in July 2008 and released in August of the same year. Despite its discontinuation, it remains an interesting piece of mobile history, encompassing the basic functionalities typical of a feature phone at the time. The device was designed to offer essential features without the complexities associated with smartphones, making it suitable for users who required simple communication tools.

Network and Connectivity

The Samsung B320 operates on GSM technology, supporting 2G bands GSM 900 / 1800, which were standard for feature phones of that era. It includes GPRS support at Class 10 but does not offer EDGE connectivity. This implies limited data speed for internet usage, focusing primarily on basic web browsing capabilities through WAP 2.0/xHTML and HTML.

Design and Build

In terms of design, the Samsung B320 is compact and lightweight, with dimensions measuring 89.9 x 45 x 18.6 mm, and weighing just 75 grams. Its size makes it portable and easy to handle. The device features a Mini-SIM slot and is available in a classic black color, a common choice for simplicity and elegance.

Display

The phone is equipped with a CSTN display that supports 65K colors, offering a vibrant, albeit basic visual experience. The screen size is 1.77 inches with a resolution of 128 x 160 pixels, making it suitable for basic usage such as reading text messages and viewing simple images. The pixel density is around 116 ppi, which is adequate for a non-smartphone device.

Memory and Storage

The Samsung B320 comes with internal storage of 4MB, which limits the amount of multimedia content that can be stored. However, it includes a phonebook capable of storing up to 500 contacts. Additionally, the device logs the last 30 dialed, received, and missed calls. It is important to note that the phone does not support external memory cards, and this restricts the extensiveness of its storage capabilities considerably.

Sound and Audio

Sound-wise, the device incorporates a loudspeaker, but it lacks a 3.5mm audio jack, implying limitations on audio playback options through personal headphones. The loudspeaker is adequate for basic audio needs such as ringtones and calls on speaker mode.

Communication Features

The B320 encompasses basic messaging features that include SMS, MMS, and email functionalities. Furthermore, it supports Bluetooth 2.0 for wireless data transfer, however, it does not offer Wi-Fi or positioning technology. There is no integrated radio, reducing options for users who enjoy listening to broadcast music or news.

Additional Features

The device supports Java applications (MIDP 2.0), allowing users to add simple Java-based games and applications. Unfortunately, it does not come with built-in games. The browser supports WAP 2.0/xHTML, facilitating basic web browsing using the limited GPRS connectivity.

Battery Life

Powered by a removable Li-Ion 800 mAh battery, the Samsung B320 offers a stand-by time of up to 200 hours and a talk time of up to 2 hours and 30 minutes. This endurance is quite low according to modern standards, yet for the phone's usage style, it may suffice for users who limit phone usage to essential calls and messages.

Market Positioning and Pricing

During its release, the Samsung B320 was valued at approximately 90 EUR, catering to a budget-focused market segment. Users seeking affordable mobile communication tools without the complexities of smartphone functionalities found it appealing.

Conclusion

The Samsung B320, with its earnest approach to mobile communication, serves as a noteworthy example of feature phones from the late 2000s. Its fundamental characteristics, focusing on basic connectivity and simplicity, illustrate the transitional period before the full dominance of smartphones. Despite its technological limitations by today's standards, the B320 provides valuable insights into the evolution of mobile devices and the variety of user needs it aimed to satisfy during its production era.