Unveiling the Samsung C100 Features Pricing Pros & Cons

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The Samsung C100 is a GSM-enabled mobile phone that supports GSM 900 and 1800 frequency bands. This technology was quite prevalent in the early 2000s, providing reliable voice communication across various regions. Though limited compared to today's connectivity standards, it effectively served the basic communication needs of its time. For data capabilities, the device features GPRS Class 8, which was sufficient for basic internet browsing and email communication through WAP 1.2.

Launch

Announced in the second quarter of 2003, the Samsung C100 was released during a vibrant time in mobile phone technology. Mobile devices were becoming slimmer and more feature-rich, and Samsung was vying for its place in this rapidly evolving market. Despite its discontinuation in subsequent years, the C100 remains a testament to the transitional phase of mobile technologies, moving from basic telephony to more multimedia-centric functionalities.

Body

The Samsung C100 dimensions are 111 x 45 x 17 mm and it weighs about 76 grams. This form factor was quite typical for the time, balancing usability with portability. The device is equipped with a Mini-SIM card slot, and its metallic silver finish adds a hint of elegance to its basic design. This lightweight build made it easy to carry and use, with a comfortable feel in hand.

Display

The phone sports a UFB (Ultra Fine & Bright) display, supporting 65,000 colors, which was remarkable at that time. The resolution of 128 x 128 pixels offers clear visibility over 5 lines. Although small by modern standards, the screen size was ample for SMS and simple menu navigation, providing a satisfactory visual experience in its class.

Memory

Internal memory is limited to 300 KB with no option for expansion via an external card slot. This holds up to 500 phonebook entries with 5 fields each and stores call records of 20 dialed, received, and missed calls. For users of that era, this capacity served basic needs effectively, prioritizing essential contacts and call management.

Camera

Notably, the Samsung C100 does not feature a camera, which is in line with the lower-end phones of that era, focusing primarily on voice communication and basic texting. The absence of a camera helps emphasize its role as a straightforward communication device without multimedia distractions.

Sound

The device does not include a loudspeaker or a 3.5mm headphone jack, but it supports downloadable polyphonic ringtones and vibration alerts. This configuration emphasizes utilitarian communication features over entertainment or multimedia functions, aligning with consumer expectations at the time of release.

Comms

Connectivity options are minimal, without WiFi or Bluetooth. The inclusion of an infrared port, however, provides a point of interest, offering a way to wirelessly transfer small amounts of data like contact info, which was a practical feature before the advent of more advanced wireless connections. The phone does not feature radio or USB connectivity.

Features

The Samsung C100 is equipped with basic features such as SMS and EMS messaging, and a WAP 1.2 browser for minimal internet interaction. It also includes essential utilities like a clock and an alarm. The device comes preloaded with four games, including Honey Ball and Hamster, along with two Java-based games, adding a hint of entertainment. Java support allows for some customization and expansion of applications beyond the pre-installed offerings.

Battery

The phone is powered by a removable Li-Ion 780 mAh battery, offering a standby time of up to 90 hours and a talk time of about 2 hours and 30 minutes. This battery life is typical for devices of its generation, allowing for a day of moderate use without constant recharging, an important feature for users who rely on mobility.

Miscellaneous

The Samsung C100 is available in Metallic Silver, a color choice that presents a business-friendly aesthetic without being too flashy. The device has a SAR rating of 0.60 W/kg for the head, indicating the level of radio-frequency energy exposure it generates, adhering to safety standards of its time.