Samsung E490 Unveiling Specs Prices Pros & Cons

Network and Connectivity

The Samsung E490 is equipped with GSM technology, operating within the bands of GSM 900 / 1800 / 1900. This ensures a wide coverage in terms of network availability, especially during the time it was released. The device supports GPRS with Class 10 and EDGE, also Class 10, allowing for basic internet connectivity suitable for feature phone standards.

Launch Details

First announced in November 2006, the Samsung E490 was subsequently released and gained attention for its compact design and functionality for the time. Although it has since been discontinued, the phone was popular in markets that required reliable and straightforward mobile communication without the complexities of a smartphone.

Design and Body

The Samsung E490 boasts dimensions of 94 x 49 x 15.5 mm, making it quite compact, and weighs only 83 grams. This lightweight factor made it ideal for users looking for a phone that could easily fit into a pocket or be comfortably used for extended periods. The device uses a Mini-SIM and features a classic clamshell design that was prevalent among phones during that time.

Display Features

Featuring a TFT display capable of showing 65K colors, the Samsung E490 has a screen size of 2.2 inches with a resolution of 176 x 220 pixels. This results in a pixel density of approximately 128 ppi. The display, while modest by modern standards, was quite adequate for basic phone functions and media viewing at the time.

Memory and Storage

The Samsung E490 includes 22MB of internal storage, which can be expanded via a dedicated microSD card slot, allowing users to store additional contacts, messages, and media files. The phonebook can accommodate up to 1000 entries with photocall capability, and the device keeps records of the last 30 dialed, received, and missed calls, providing users with handy features for communication management.

Camera Capabilities

The main camera on the Samsung E490 is a single 1.3 MP shooter, capable of taking basic photographs and video recording. This level of camera technology was typical for feature phones of that era, suitable for casual photography needs but limited in terms of handiness and quality compared to modern smartphone cameras.

Sound and Audio

The device comes with stereo speakers which offer clear sound output. It supports downloadable polyphonic and MP3 ringtones, providing a level of customization for incoming calls and alerts. However, it lacks a 3.5mm headphone jack, potentially limiting its versatility in terms of personal audio listening options.

Communication and Connectivity

While the Samsung E490 lacks advanced connectivity features like WLAN and GPS, it does include Bluetooth capabilities, which allows for file sharing and connectivity with other Bluetooth-enabled devices. The phone also uses a proprietary USB connection, which was common at the time but could be limiting for users looking to connect with universal USB devices.

Additional Features

The phone supports SMS, EMS, and MMS messaging, alongside offering a WAP 2.0/xHTML browser for basic internet navigation. There are pre-installed games with the option to download more and Java support with MIDP 2.0, hinting at some level of app usage and entertainment options. Common sensors and advanced features found in modern devices are absent, reflecting its straightforward design as a feature phone.

Battery Life

The Samsung E490 uses a removable Li-Ion 850 mAh battery, allowing for easy battery replacement if needed. During its time, this battery capacity provided decent performance, with a standby and talk time that matched user expectations for feature phones, ensuring the user remained connected throughout the day.

Miscellaneous Specifications

Available in Red/Silver and Red/Black color options, the Samsung E490 provided style choices for consumers. The SAR values are also notable, with 0.71 W/kg for the head and 0.34 W/kg for body usage. The European SAR value was 0.48 W/kg for head, within safe limits, ensuring user safety. At approximately 130 EUR, the phone was relatively affordable, making it accessible to a broad consumer base, particularly those seeking a reliable device minus the frills of a smartphone.