Samsung I100 Gem Full Specs Pricing Pros & Cons

Introduction to Samsung I100 Gem

The Samsung I100 Gem, released in early 2011, represents a snapshot of the smartphone evolution. Offering basic but noteworthy features, it served as a stepping stone in a rapidly innovating mobile industry. This article delves into the key aspects of the Samsung I100 Gem, offering a comprehensive look at its specifications and the significance it held during its time.

Design and Build

The Samsung I100 Gem features a compact and user-friendly design. Its dimensions of 113.8 x 55.4 x 12.2 mm and weight of 109.2 grams made it a portable and accessible device for everyday use. Constructed with a simple black finish, it possessed a classic look complemented by a 3.2-inch TFT display. This screen, with a resolution of 240 x 400 pixels, offered vibrant 256K colors, encapsulated by a scratch-resistant glass for durability.

Display

Equipped with a 3.2-inch screen, the Samsung I100 Gem featured a screen-to-body ratio of approximately 46.2%, which was quite standard for its time. The 240 x 400-pixel resolution and 146 ppi density provided a satisfactory visual experience for day-to-day smartphone tasks. Though modest by today's standards, this display sufficed for viewing photos, managing emails, and browsing through contacts.

Operating System and Performance

The Samsung I100 Gem operated on Android 2.1 (Eclair), a version that laid foundational features for Android's user-friendly interface. An 800MHz processor powered the device, adequate for handling basic applications and tasks efficiently during its period. The use of this operating system allowed users to access an array of applications available on the Android Market, contributing to a versatile handheld experience despite the limited hardware capabilities.

Memory and Storage

In terms of storage, the Samsung I100 Gem came with an internal memory of 124MB. While limited, it provided enough space for essential applications and utilities. For users requiring additional storage, the inclusion of a dedicated microSDHC slot allowed for expanded memory, supporting ample multimedia files like photos and music.

Camera Capabilities

The Samsung I100 Gem was equipped with a single 3.15 MP rear-facing camera. Though lacking high-end features such as flash or autofocus, this camera was capable of capturing decent images for basic photography needs. It also offered video recording capabilities, allowing users to document moments with ease, an attractive feature at the time.

Connectivity and Network

Supporting CDMA technology, the Samsung I100 Gem was equipped to handle both 2G and 3G bands, including EVDO Rev.A with speeds of up to 3.1 Mbps. Although it did not feature WLAN, the presence of Bluetooth 2.1 with A2DP provided users an option for wireless connection to peripheral devices. GPS and A-GPS functionalities were included for basic navigation and location services.

Audio and Sound Features

The device integrated a loudspeaker and a 3.5mm jack, facilitating a satisfactory audio experience for media playback and calls. While it lacked an FM radio, the phone supported basic audio facilities that catered to users' entertainment and connectivity needs.

Battery Life

One of the notable features of the Samsung I100 Gem was its battery life. It featured a removable Li-Ion battery that promised a stand-by time of up to 800 hours and a talk time of around 6 hours and 50 minutes. This longevity made it a reliable choice for users needing a phone that could endure a full day’s usage without frequent charging.

Additional Features

Among secondary features, the Samsung I100 Gem included an accelerometer and proximity sensor, which were standard in enhancing the user experience during its operational time. The browser supported WAP 2.0/xHTML and HTML for internet browsing, acknowledging the increasing trend of mobile internet usage.

Final Thoughts

Though the Samsung I100 Gem does not compare to the powerful smartphones available today, it represents an important era in mobile technology. With its compact build, essential features, and affordable price point of around 50 EUR, it catered to consumers transitioning to smarter mobile solutions. The device holds historical value in Samsung's mobile legacy, illustrating the company's incremental advancements toward sophisticated technology and the broader accessibility of smart devices.