Samsung E600 Unveiling Specs Prices Pros & Cons

Introduction to Samsung E600

The Samsung E600 is a notable entry in the history of mobile phones, introduced in the fourth quarter of 2003. Despite being discontinued today, the device marked a significant step in mobile communication technology during its time. The compact and stylish design, paired with essential features, catered to a wide user base, making it an appealing choice back then. This article delves deep into the specifications and features of the Samsung E600, showcasing how it catered to users' needs in the early 2000s.

Design and Build

The Samsung E600 was designed with dimensions of 82 x 42 x 24 mm and weighed approximately 85 grams. This compact and lightweight build made it convenient for users to carry the phone in their pockets or small bags without inconvenience. The phone utilized a Mini-SIM, which was standard during that era. The materials used provided a reasonable level of durability and resistance to everyday wear and tear, characteristic of early 2000s mobile phones.

Display Features

The phone featured a TFT display supporting 65K colors, which was quite common for the phones of that time. The screen with a resolution of 128 x 128 pixels provided a clear and vivid representation of information, ensuring users could effortlessly navigate through the phone’s interface and enjoy basic functionalities like games and images. Although the screen size is unspecified, the square ratio suggests a compact viewing area suitable for the device's class.

Camera Capabilities

For imaging, the Samsung E600 sported a VGA main camera. Although modest by today’s standards, it provided users with the capability to capture basic photos and videos, making it functional for quick snapshots. It was one of the few phones at the time that introduced users to phone photography, setting a precedent for future enhancements in mobile camera technology.

Network and Communication

Operating on GSM technology, the E600 supported GSM 900/1800/1900 bands. It included GPRS Class 8 for data transfer, which, while slow by modern benchmarks, allowed essential Internet connectivity through WAP browser access. This was significant during its launch as mobile data was a burgeoning area of mobile technology. The phone did not support Bluetooth or WLAN, but it featured an infrared port, a popular short-range communication standard in that period.

Sound Features

Though the Samsung E600 did not come with an integrated loudspeaker or a 3.5mm headphone jack, its alert types included vibration and downloadable polyphonic ringtones, a fun aspect for personalization back then. Despite the lack of modern sound accessories, the ability to customize ringtones was a much-appreciated feature by users.

Storage and Memory

In terms of storage, the phone lacked a card slot but compensated with an internal phonebook capable of holding up to 1000 entries with contact groups and photo call features. It kept track of communication through recording 20 dialed, received, and missed calls. The focus on contact storage and basic record keeping aligned with user expectations for functional personal organizers in mobile handsets.

Battery Life

The Samsung E600 was powered by a removable Li-Ion 900 mAh battery. This provided a stand-by time ranging from 150 to 350 hours and talk time between 4 to 9 hours, which was quite reliable for daily moderate use. An alternative slim Li-Ion 700 mAh battery option existed, providing decent flexibility in managing battery life. For users who had limited access to charging facilities, this feature provided essential assurance of continued connectivity.

Additional Features

The Samsung E600 included several functional extras, such as SMS, EMS, and MMS messaging, highlighting the diverse communication possibilities of the device. It came with four pre-installed games – BubbleSmile, Fun2Link, Ultimate Golf, and Mobile Chess – alongside the capability to download more. These leisure features provided entertainment options for users, ensuring the phone was not only a tool for communication but also for recreation.

Market Launch and Availability

When announced in 2003 Q4, the Samsung E600 represented a balance of affordability and functionality, commanding a niche market presence until its discontinuation. Its availability was marked by its Silver color, and it adhered to the EU SAR standards with a rating of 0.98 W/kg for the head, ensuring safety compliance.

Conclusion

The Samsung E600 remains a fond memory for many users from the early 2000s, representing a time when mobile technology was beginning its rapid evolution towards the advanced capabilities we see today. Its blend of design, basic photography capabilities, and reliable communication services made it a considerable choice for its time. The device's legacy lives on as a precursor to the more advanced Samsung models that followed.