Price and specifications of Samsung C3212 advantages, disadvantages, and a comprehensive explanation

Network and Connectivity

The Samsung C3212 is a feature phone that utilizes GSM technology for its mobile network operations. It supports 2G networks with dual-band GSM 900 / 1800 frequencies available for SIM 1. This phone also provides basic mobile internet capabilities with GPRS Class 10 and EDGE Class 10 technologies, which support limited online browsing and data services given the constraints of older network technologies.

Design and Build

Announced in August 2009 and released in September of the same year, the Samsung C3212 was considered affordable and functional. It carried a classic yet robust design with dimensions of 111.6 x 47 x 14.2 mm, giving it a compact form that fits easily in hand or pocket. Weighing only 92 grams, it was lightweight and portable. Featuring a dual SIM (Mini-SIM) capability, the C3212 offered convenience for users who needed to manage two separate phone numbers or networks on the same device.

Display

The device came with a 2.0-inch TFT display capable of showing 65K colors, providing basic visual output suited to feature phones of its era. The resolution was modest at 120 x 160 pixels (~100 ppi density), adequate for text and basic graphics but limited in its ability to display high-quality media or vivid imagery.

Memory and Storage

Memory features were limited by modern standards with the internal storage capped at 15MB. However, it offered a microSDHC card slot that enabled users to expand storage significantly for additional media files. The phonebook could store up to 1000 entries, complete with photocall features, and could log 30 received, dialed, and missed calls for convenience.

Camera

The main camera was a basic VGA unit, a typical offering in feature phones of this period. Though limited in resolution, it allowed users to capture simple photos and videos, supporting rudimentary multimedia functionalities for quick sharing and personal archiving.

Audio and Multimedia

In terms of audio, the C3212 came equipped with a loudspeaker but lacked a 3.5mm headphone jack, potentially limiting private listening experiences unless through Bluetooth-enabled devices. Nonetheless, stereo FM radio with RDS and recording capabilities added entertainment value. The Bluetooth 2.1 with A2DP support allowed users to connect wirelessly with headphones or other compatible Bluetooth accessories.

Communication Functions

The Samsung C3212 provided basic communication features such as SMS, MMS, and Email, alongside Java support with MIDP 2.0, allowing for limited applications and games. Internet access was supported by a WAP 2.0/xHTML browser, enabling minimalistic web browsing capabilities.

Battery Life

Powering the Samsung C3212 was a removable Li-Ion 1000 mAh battery. The phone offered reasonable battery life, with a stand-by time of up to 322 hours and a talk time of approximately 10 hours, making it suitable for day-long use without frequent charging.

Miscellaneous

The phone was available solely in black, with a price point around USD 100, making it budget-friendly during its time. Additionally, SAR values were recorded at 1.19 W/kg for the head according to EU guidelines, which is essential information for users concerned with radiation exposure from mobile devices.

Conclusion

In summary, the Samsung C3212 represented a straightforward and reliable choice for individuals seeking a feature phone during its market period. Its twin SIM feature, essential communication functions, and affordability appealed to users who required a non-smartphone device. Offering basic multimedia options, reasonable battery life, and expandable storage, it served well for voice calls and text messaging more than a decade ago.