Samsung Galaxy Beam I8520 Specs Pricing & ProsCons Unveiled

Overview of Samsung I8520 Galaxy Beam

The Samsung I8520 Galaxy Beam, released in July 2010, introduced a novel feature that set it apart from other smartphones of its time: an integrated projector. This device aimed to blend the functionalities of a smartphone with the ability to project media content, catering to both entertainment and business needs.

Design and Build

The Galaxy Beam sports a sleek design with dimensions measuring 123 x 59.8 x 14.9 mm and weighs 156 grams. The device's compact size and light weight were commendable considering the additional hardware of the projector. Constructed to maintain a balance between functionality and portability, the phone featured a Mini-SIM slot and a black color finish, offering simplicity and elegance.

Display

With a 3.7-inch Super AMOLED display, the Galaxy Beam offered vibrant colors and deep contrasts, a hallmark of Samsung displays. The screen's resolution of 480 x 800 pixels resulted in a density of approximately 252 ppi. Despite its relatively small size by today’s standards, the display was bright and the scratch-resistant glass provided added durability.

Projector Feature

The standout feature of the Galaxy Beam was undoubtedly its projector. This built-in projector allowed users to project images and videos onto flat surfaces with a size equivalent to 50 inches in optimal lighting conditions. Although the resolution was not high-definition, the convenience of having a mobile projection system was highly beneficial for presentations and impromptu media viewing sessions.

Performance and Hardware

Under the hood, the Galaxy Beam was powered by a 720 MHz processor, which was adequate for the Android 2.1 (Eclair) operating system. It was equipped with 384MB RAM, which, while modest, provided a satisfactory experience for basic multitasking and app usage typical for the era.

Storage

The phone came with an internal storage capacity of 16GB, a generous amount for 2010, allowing users to store a substantial number of apps, photos, and media. Additionally, the microSDHC card slot enabled users to expand storage further, a feature that provided flexibility for those needing additional space.

Camera Capabilities

The Galaxy Beam featured an 8MP rear camera with autofocus and an LED flash, capable of capturing images with decent clarity and video recording at 720p at 30fps. The front VGA camera, while basic, facilitated video calls and self-portraits, albeit with limited quality.

Battery Life

Equipped with a removable Li-Ion 1800 mAh battery, the device offered a competent battery life, standing up to 630 hours on standby and providing talk time of up to 14 hours on 2G networks and 7 hours on 3G. The removable design allowed users to carry spare batteries for prolonged usage.

Connectivity and Network

The device supported GSM and HSPA network technologies, ensuring reliable connectivity for both calls and mobile internet. Its Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n and Bluetooth 3.0 allowed for seamless wireless connections, while the GPS with A-GPS functionality aided in navigation.

Audio and Additional Features

The Galaxy Beam included stereo speakers, providing a reasonable audio output. The 3.5mm headphone jack was a standard feature, allowing personal listening experiences. Additional features included an FM radio with RDS support, enhancing the multimedia capabilities of the device.

Software and User Experience

Running on Android 2.1, the Galaxy Beam delivered a user-friendly interface, although it lacked some of the advanced features found in later Android versions. The presence of an accelerometer and proximity sensors enhanced the device's interactivity and overall user experience.

Market Position and Reception

At approximately 260 EUR, the Samsung I8520 Galaxy Beam was positioned as a mid-range smartphone. Its unique projector feature made it attractive for niche markets, including business professionals and media enthusiasts. Although its performance specs were not cutting-edge, the Galaxy Beam was well-received for innovation and practicality.

Conclusion

The Samsung I8520 Galaxy Beam stands out in smartphone history as an innovative device that attempted to bridge the gap between communication and media projection. While it may not have achieved mass adoption, its unique approach has influenced future designs in smartphone technology.