Price and specifications of Samsung C500 advantages, disadvantages, and a comprehensive explanation

Introduction to Samsung C500

The Samsung C500 is a feature phone that was announced in October 2007. It represented a period when mobile phones were evolving from simple communication devices to gadgets with multimedia capabilities. Although the C500 was eventually discontinued, it gave users a blend of basic functionalities with some advanced features for its time. In this article, we will explore the detailed specifications and features of the Samsung C500.

Network and Connectivity

The Samsung C500 supports GSM technology, which was one of the most prevalent mobile communication standards at the time. It operates on 2G bands GSM 900 / 1800 / 1900, providing reasonable coverage for voice calls and text messaging. The device offers GPRS Class 10 support for basic data connectivity, although it does not support EDGE or more advanced data communication technologies.

Launch and Availability

Launched in 2007, the Samsung C500 was available for a short period before being discontinued. At its launch, it was pitched as a budget-friendly device aimed at users who needed portable communication without the advanced features of smartphones. Despite its discontinuation, the C500 is remembered for its simplicity and ease of use.

Design and Build

The C500 boasts compact dimensions of 83.4 x 44.5 x 17.8 mm, making it a pocket-friendly device. With a weight of just 76 grams, it is lightweight and portable. The phone uses a Mini-SIM, which was standard for the time. Its build focuses on durability and usability, available in two color options: Black and Red.

Display

The Samsung C500 features a 1.77-inch TFT display capable of showing 65K colors. The screen resolution is 128 x 160 pixels, which results in approximately 116 ppi pixel density. While the display specifications might seem basic today, it was adequate for the functional requirements of users at the time, such as displaying SMS and basic multimedia elements.

Memory and Storage

The device comes with 2MB of internal storage, which was typical for feature phones at the time. There is no support for expandable storage through a memory card slot. The phone can store up to 1000 phonebook entries and keeps records of 20 dialed, received, and missed calls. This limitation on storage was manageable given the primary use of the device for communication.

Camera

The Samsung C500 is equipped with a VGA camera, demonstrating a basic photography capability. With a resolution of 0.3MP, it was primarily suited for taking simple photos. The phone did not support video recording, which is reflective of its focus on voice and text functionality over multimedia entertainment.

Sound

In terms of audio capabilities, the Samsung C500 does not have a built-in loudspeaker or a 3.5mm headphone jack. The lack of these features contributed to the phone’s simplicity and was aligned with its role as a basic communication device rather than a multimedia hub.

Communications

Connectivity options on the Samsung C500 are minimal. The absence of Bluetooth, WLAN, positioning systems, radio, and USB connectivity emphasizes its fundamental purpose as a communication tool. This further reflects its classification as a feature phone rather than a smartphone.

Additional Features

The device supports SMS, EMS, and MMS messaging for text communication. Browsing capabilities are provided via a WAP 2.0/xHTML browser, adequate for basic internet browsing. Pre-installed games offer basic entertainment, though there is no Java support for running additional applications or games.

Battery Life

The Samsung C500 is powered by a removable Li-Ion 800 mAh battery. This provides up to 220 hours of standby time and approximately 5 hours of talk time. The battery life is sufficient to meet the needs of users who rely on the phone for essential communication, ensuring it remains operational throughout the day.

Miscellaneous

The phone was made available in Black and Red color variants, catering to users' preference for classic and vibrant tones. Safety standards were adhered to, with a SAR EU rating of 0.96 W/kg (head), ensuring user safety in regard to radio wave exposure.

Conclusion

The Samsung C500 remains a nostalgic symbol of early mobile technology for many. Its practicality made it a staple in a world where mobile communication was becoming ubiquitous, yet not overbearing with advanced features. Despite its discontinuation, the Samsung C500 is a reminder of the evolution of mobile phones and their impact on everyday life. This feature phone may not stack up to modern-day smartphones, but during its time, it was a reliable and efficient partner for communication.