Price and specifications of Samsung E690 advantages, disadvantages, and a comprehensive explanation

Overview of Samsung E690

The Samsung E690 is a feature phone that was released in November 2006. As with many phones of its era, the focus was on basic communication and utility features, distinct from the smartphone functionalities that users expect today. This device was notable for its compact form factor and simplistic design, appealing to individuals looking for straightforward, uncomplicated mobile communication.

Design and Build

The Samsung E690 was designed with portability in mind. Its dimensions are 94 x 48 x 15.9 mm and it weighs just 95 grams, making it easy to slip into a pocket or bag. The device is built to withstand the typical bumps and drops of daily use, with a robust plastic casing available in silver and pink colors. The phone utilizes a mini-SIM, which was standard at the time of its release.

Display

The Samsung E690 features a 2.0-inch TFT display with a modest resolution of 128 x 160 pixels. This results in a density of approximately 102 pixels per inch (ppi), which was adequate for displaying menus and simple graphics typical of feature phones. The screen supports 65,000 colors, providing a reasonable display for text and basic images.

Camera

Equipped with a VGA camera, the Samsung E690 captures images at a resolution appropriate for its 0.3 MP sensor. This camera is primarily intended for casual snapshots rather than high-quality photography. Video recording is supported, however, the quality is basic and best suited for capturing simple, spontaneous moments.

Connectivity and Network

The E690 supports GSM technology across 2G bands (GSM 900/1800/1900). It offers GPRS class 10 connectivity, ensuring basic internet browsing capabilities through the WAP 2.0/xHTML browser. The inclusion of EDGE technology allows for slightly faster data transmission speeds. Bluetooth 2.0 offers a means for local file sharing, while USB 1.1 facilitates connectivity with other devices for data transfer.

Storage and Memory

With 16MB of internal storage, the Samsung E690 is designed to store essential data like contacts and messages rather than multimedia files. However, it does feature a dedicated microSD card slot, allowing users to expand storage capacity for additional content. The phonebook supports storing contacts with details, and users can access call records, recording the last 20 dialed, received, and missed calls.

Battery Life

Powered by a removable Li-Ion 800 mAh battery, the Samsung E690 provides a standby time of up to 250 hours and a talk time of approximately 4 hours. These specifications reflect the efficiency of feature phones, where power consumption is minimized due to the limited processing and screen capabilities compared to modern smartphones.

Sound and Media

The phone supports vibration alerts and includes polyphonic and MP3 ringtone capabilities. While there is no 3.5mm headphone jack, the phone's loudspeaker can serve for hands-free calls and basic audio playback. Samsung included FM radio functionality, providing users with access to local broadcasts—an appreciated feature for entertainment on the go.

Additional Features

In terms of software, the Samsung E690 caters to basic messaging with SMS, MMS, and Email functionalities. Although it does not include Wi-Fi, the feature phone is equipped with MIDP 2.0 Java support, allowing users to download and run compatible games and applications. The device's simplicity ensures easy navigation and use for those who prioritize functionality over advanced features.

Market Position and Legacy

When launched, the Samsung E690 was priced at around 100 EUR, placing it in an affordable range for many consumers. Its feature set, while limited by today's standards, offered excellent value for users who appreciated straightforward mobile communication without the distractions of a modern smartphone. Despite being discontinued, its legacy remains in its representation of a transitional era in mobile technology, offering a glimpse of the past before smartphones became ubiquitous.