Price and specifications of Samsung C3530 advantages, disadvantages, and a comprehensive explanation

Overview of Samsung C3530

The Samsung C3530 is a feature phone that was announced in November 2010 and subsequently released in the same month. Though now discontinued, the device was known for its simple functionality coupled with a sleek design. It was targeted towards users who wanted a budget-friendly phone with essential features.

Design and Build

The Samsung C3530 sports a classic candy bar design. The dimensions are 112.2 x 46.7 x 11.9 mm, making it compact and easy to hold. Weighing in at 91.4 grams, the phone is lightweight and portable. The chassis is crafted with durable materials, and it's available in Silver, Black, and a special La Fleur edition, adding a feminine touch to its appearance.

It utilizes a Mini-SIM format and has a tactile keypad that's familiar to users who preferred traditional button interfaces over touchscreens.

Display

The device features a 2.2-inch TFT screen with a resolution of 240 x 320 pixels, rendering approximately 256K colors. Though modest by modern standards, the display was sufficient for the text, simple graphics, and basic navigation. The screen-to-body ratio stands at around 28.6%, which makes it functional for its intended use.

Camera

The Samsung C3530 is equipped with a basic 3.15 MP rear camera capable of capturing images and recording QCIF video at 15fps. While it lacks the sophisticated imaging capabilities of smartphones, it allows users to capture spontaneous moments on the go. There is no front-facing camera, consistent with feature phone designs of its time.

Performance and Storage

As a feature phone, the C3530 doesn't boast a sophisticated processor or high RAM capacity. Instead, it focuses on simplicity and efficiency for basic tasks. The device includes 50 MB of internal storage, which can be expanded via a dedicated microSDHC slot, offering flexibility for storing contacts, messages, and essential files.

Network and Connectivity

The C3530 supports GSM technology and operates across multiple 2G bands—850, 900, 1800, 1900. It offers GPRS and EDGE services, classified as Class 12, enabling data access for web browsing and messaging. Although WLAN capabilities are absent, Bluetooth 2.1 with A2DP is available for wireless file transfers and connectivity to compatible devices. Additionally, a microUSB 2.0 port allows for wired connections and charging.

Multimedia and Applications

The phone is designed to cater to basic multimedia needs. It features a stereo FM radio with RDS, allowing users to enjoy music and broadcasts on the move. There's also a 3.5mm audio jack for private listening and the inclusion of a loudspeaker for hands-free audio sharing. Java support (MIDP 2.0) permits the use of downloadable games and simple applications, alongside the pre-installed ones.

Battery Life

Powering the Samsung C3530 is a removable Li-Ion 960 mAh battery. The device boasts a commendable standby time of up to 640 hours and talk time up to 14 hours and 30 minutes, ensuring long-lasting performance without frequent charges. This extended battery life is particularly useful for users who rely on their phones for calls and text messaging throughout the day.

Additional Features

The Samsung C3530 is not just about fulfilling basic communication needs; it also supports various messaging formats, including SMS, MMS, and Email. The WAP 2.0/xHTML browser provides a simplified way to access the internet, suiting light browsing activities. Despite the lack of advanced smartphone sensors, the C3530 still manages to deliver a satisfactory user experience.

Market Position and Pricing

During its release, the Samsung C3530 was positioned as an affordable option for users seeking simplicity without compromising essential features. It was priced around 90 EUR, placing it in the budget-friendly segment of the market. Ideal for first-time phone buyers or individuals needing a reliable secondary device, it served a wide range of customer needs.

Conclusion

The Samsung C3530 symbolized an era of mobile phones where practicality and longevity were key. Despite being discontinued, it remains a testament to Samsung's commitment to delivering quality devices tailored to diverse user preferences. For those who appreciate a straightforward, reliable phone, the Samsung C3530 holds enduring appeal, echoing a time when feature phones ruled the communication landscape.