Samsung Galaxy Mega 63 I9200 Full Specs Prices & Insights

Design and Build

The Samsung Galaxy Mega 6.3 I9200 is recognized for its substantial size and robust design. Launched in June 2013, this device was among the largest smartphones at its time. It measures 167.6 x 88 x 8 mm and weighs 199 grams, which can be considered hefty by today's standard but was an expected feature for phablets, a cross between phone and tablet during its release period. The device is crafted with a plastic body featuring rounded corners that make it comfortable to hold despite its size. It supports a micro-SIM, and the build quality reflects Samsung's classic design aesthetic of the early 2010s.

Display

The Galaxy Mega 6.3 sports a 6.3-inch SC-LCD display with a resolution of 720 x 1280 pixels, translating to approximately 233 ppi pixel density. This screen size allowed it to stand out as a cross between a smartphone and a tablet, providing an expansive viewing area ideal for media consumption. Despite not being full HD, the display offers decent color reproduction and viewing angles suitable for various multimedia applications. The screen accounts for around 74.2% screen-to-body ratio, ensuring a good viewing experience even in bright sunlight conditions due to its nominal contrast ratio of 1379:1.

Platform and Performance

The device operates on Android 4.2.2 Jelly Bean, which is upgradeable to 4.4.2 KitKat, with Samsung's proprietary TouchWiz UI layered over for enhanced user experience. It is powered by a Qualcomm Snapdragon 400 chipset built on a 28 nm process, coupled with a dual-core 1.7 GHz Krait 300 CPU and Adreno 305 GPU. While these specifications might appear modest today, at the time of release, they provided satisfactory performance for day-to-day tasks. The device handles multitasking and media playback efficiently, thanks to the integrated 1.5GB RAM.

Storage

With options of 8GB and 16GB of internal storage, the Galaxy Mega 6.3 offers reasonable space for apps and media. For users requiring additional storage, the inclusion of a microSDXC card slot allows for storage expansion, accommodating ever-growing data needs. This feature was a significant advantage over many contemporaries that limited storage flexibility.

Network and Connectivity

The Galaxy Mega 6.3 accommodates GSM, HSPA, and LTE networks, making it versatile for different network standards worldwide. The LTE supports Cat3 with speeds up to 100/50 Mbps, aligning with the needs for fast mobile internet. Connectivity options also include dual-band Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac, Bluetooth 4.0, NFC, and an infrared port, reflecting its aptness as a connected device for its time. GPS and GLONASS positioning systems enhance navigation capabilities.

Camera

The device is equipped with a primary 8 MP camera featuring autofocus, LED flash, HDR, and panorama capabilities. It supports 1080p video recording at 30fps, facilitating respectable image and video capture for everyday shooting. The stereo sound recording feature adds value for multimedia enthusiasts. The front-facing 1.9 MP camera suffices for basic video calls and selfies, although it lacks the sophistication of modern-day selfie cameras.

Battery Life

One of the significant draws of this device is its large, removable Li-Ion 3200 mAh battery. It promises up to 17 hours of talk time on 2G networks and up to 10 hours on 3G. When it comes to standby, the device can last up to 420 hours, offering substantial endurance for daily use. Music lovers can enjoy up to 82 hours of playtime, making it a reliable choice for long commutes or travel without frequent charging interruptions.

Sound and Multimedia

The loudspeaker of the Galaxy Mega delivers adequate audio quality with measurements showing 67dB in voice, 69dB in noise, and 75dB in ring modes. For personalized audio experiences, the device retains a 3.5mm headphone jack. Despite evolving audio standards, this remains a convenient feature for users preferring wired audio solutions. The device supports various multimedia formats, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of media files.

Unique Features

Samsung integrated several sensors such as accelerometer, gyro, proximity, and compass, enriching the device's utility in various applications ranging from gaming to mapping. MHL TV-out feature provides an avenue for mirroring the device's display on larger screens, a valuable feature for presentations and media sharing.

Miscellaneous

The Galaxy Mega 6.3 was available in three colors: White, Black, and Plum Purple, catering to different aesthetic preferences. Models released included GT-I9200, GT-I9205, GT-I9200X, and others, each offering specific network and feature compatibilities. Regarding safety standards, it has a SAR value of 1.09 W/kg for both head and body, and SAR EU measurements show 0.20 W/kg for the head and 0.34 W/kg for the body, maintaining safety within international limits.

Conclusion

The Samsung Galaxy Mega 6.3 I9200 was an ambitious move by Samsung to cater to consumers seeking larger screens without delving into full tablet territories. It bridges the gap between utility and entertainment, providing ample performance that resonates well with users who prioritize media consumption. While discontinued now, it set precedents in the hybrid device market, influencing design and functional paradigms that continue to inspire subsequent innovations in smartphone and phablet categories.