Samsung i770 Saga Unveiling Specs Prices Pros & Cons

Release and Discontinuation

The Samsung i770 Saga was officially announced in November 2008 and released during the same month. Though it was a sophisticated device for its time, it was eventually discontinued, marking the end of its short-lived presence in the market. It was part of Samsung’s attempt to make a significant impact in the smartphone arena, leveraging Microsoft’s Windows Mobile platform.

Body and Design

Featuring dimensions of 124 x 62 x 13.5 mm and a weight of 130 grams, the Samsung i770 Saga managed to strike a balance between functionality and portability. The device was equipped with a full QWERTY keyboard, which was quite popular among users who preferred tactile feedback and easy text input. Using a Mini-SIM, it was designed with a sturdy yet sleek build and was available in various colors such as black, red, and blue, providing a bit of personalization.

Display Quality

The Samsung i770 Saga boasted a 2.55-inch TFT resistive touchscreen. With a screen-to-body ratio of approximately 27.3%, the display offered a resolution of 320 x 320 pixels, resulting in a pixel density of around 177 ppi. Although it only displayed 65K colors, for its time, it was sufficiently vibrant and was well-suited for the basic functionalities of a smartphone in 2008.

Platform and Performance

The device operated on Microsoft Windows Mobile 6.1 Professional, supported by a Qualcomm MSM7500 chipset. Its CPU was a 400 MHz ARM 11 processor, which enabled the phone to handle tasks and applications common at that time with reasonable efficiency. Although modest by today’s standards, it was comparable to other smartphones in its era.

Memory and Storage

The Samsung i770 Saga did not have internal memory specifications that stand out today. However, it offered expandable storage through a dedicated microSDHC slot. This feature was crucial as it allowed users to store more files, applications, and media beyond the phone's intrinsic capacity.

Camera Capabilities

Equipped with a 2 MP main camera, the Saga’s photographic capabilities were basic, yet suitable for capturing spontaneous moments with acceptable clarity. While video recording was available, the quality was in line with what users in 2008 could expect. The device did not feature a selfie camera, which was customary for the time.

Sound and Audio

The phone featured a loudspeaker for media playback and calls. However, it lacked a 3.5mm headphone jack, which could have been a limitation for users who preferred wired audio accessories. This limitation highlighted a shift towards newer audio interfaces and the eventual phasing out of the older ports.

Connectivity Options

The i770 Saga offered a variety of connectivity options. It supported Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g, which allowed for internet browsing and data syncs over wireless networks. Bluetooth 2.0 with A2DP facilitated wireless media streaming and file sharing between compatible devices. However, its lack of GPS positioning and FM Radio could be seen as a compromise compared to other contemporaries. USB 2.0 was the standard interface for charging and data transfer.

Network and Carrier Support

The device was compatible with GSM networks, using GSM 850/900/1800/1900 bands. For 3G capability, it supported CDMA2000 1x EV-DO, which enhanced data transfer speeds compared to earlier technologies. Though GPRS Class 10 and EDGE Class 10 supported basic data transfer, the phone was not intended for heavy internet usage.

Battery Life

The Samsung i770 Saga was powered by a removable Li-Ion battery. It provided a standby time of up to 300 hours and a talk time of up to 7 hours, which was quite reasonable for a smartphone at the time. The removable nature of the battery meant that users could replace it easily, extending the device’s lifespan.

Additional Features

Operating on a WAP 2.0/HTML browser, the Saga supported basic internet browsing. However, due to the limitations of the hardware and network capabilities, it wasn't optimal for more complex online tasks. Notably, it lacked advanced sensors which have become a staple in modern smartphones today.

Pricing and Value

At launch, the Samsung i770 Saga was priced around 140 EUR. This made it a competitive option for users seeking a device that bridged the gap between traditional cell phones and more advanced smartphones of that era. Its pricing reflected the balance of features it offered, targeting both business professionals and general consumers looking for a device with enhanced communication features.

Conclusion

The Samsung i770 Saga emerged during a pivotal time in mobile technology. It represented a transitional phase where phones began to offer more robust operating systems and smartphone features. Although the device would be considered antiquated by today’s standards, with its modest specs and now outdated Windows Mobile OS, it was reflective of the technological advancements and consumer needs of its time. The i770 Saga holds a place in the evolution of smartphones, showcasing early integrations of touchscreens, QWERTY keyboards, and connectivity features that laid the groundwork for future developments in mobile technology.