Samsung I9500 Fraser Specs Prices Pros & Cons Unveiled

Introduction to Samsung I9500 Fraser

The Samsung I9500 Fraser is a noteworthy device that was introduced in May 2012. While it has since been discontinued, it remains an interesting piece of technology due to its unique features and hardware specifications. Unlike many other devices of its time, the Fraser was part of Samsung’s experimentation with the Tizen operating system, distinguishing it from other smartphones that predominantly ran on Android. This device catered to users who sought different experiences in terms of software and user interface design.

Network and Connectivity

The Samsung I9500 Fraser supported GSM and HSPA technologies, which were standard at the time for mobile connectivity. It was equipped with 2G bands for GSM 850, 900, 1800, and 1900, along with 3G HSDPA capabilities. Users could count on GPRS and EDGE for data transmission, which was essential for mobile internet access before the widespread rollout of 4G LTE networks.

Launch and Market Position

Announced in May 2012, the Samsung I9500 Fraser entered a competitive mobile market. It was positioned as a device for those interested in the emerging Tizen OS, a Linux-based system aiming to offer a customizable user experience. Despite its distinct offering, the device was eventually discontinued, which reflects both the evolving market demands and the challenges Tizen faced in establishing its place among dominant operating systems.

Design and Build

The phone’s dimensions were 153.9 x 76.4 x 14.8 mm, making it comfortable to handle at the time of its release. Even though details about its exact weight are not specified, the device included features that were typical of the era's smartphones. The use of a Mini-SIM slot was standard, allowing users to engage with their mobile networks easily.

Display Characteristics

The Samsung I9500 Fraser was equipped with a 4.65-inch Super AMOLED Plus display. This provided vibrant colors and deep contrasts, enhancing the visual experience for users. With a resolution of 720 x 1280 pixels, the device offered a pixel density of approximately 316 ppi, a commendable feature that ensured clarity and sharpness in image and text rendering.

Performance and Operating System

At the heart of the Samsung I9500 Fraser was the Exynos C210 chipset, coupled with a dual-core 1.2 GHz Cortex-A9 CPU. This setup provided a moderate performance level suitable for the smartphone’s intended usage during its time. Running on Tizen 1.0 OS, the phone offered a different experience compared to Android, focusing on customization and user-centric features that appealed to a niche audience.

Memory and Storage

The device came with 1GB RAM and 16GB of internal storage. Additionally, it included a dedicated microSDHC slot, which allowed users to expand storage as per their needs. This flexibility was particularly useful for those looking to store more media and applications beyond the internal capacity.

Camera System

The Samsung I9500 Fraser featured an 8 MP autofocus rear camera with an LED flash, enabling quality photography under various lighting conditions. The device was also capable of video recording, a standard feature for smartphones of its time. For selfies and video calls, it provided a 2 MP front camera, which was modest but functional for basic needs.

Audio and Sound Capabilities

Equipped with a loudspeaker and a 3.5mm headphone jack, the device catered to users who enjoyed multimedia consumption. The headphone jack was particularly appreciated during a time when wireless audio transmission was not as ubiquitous as it is today, allowing the use of traditional wired headphones and headsets.

Communication and Connectivity

The phone supported Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n with dual-band, Wi-Fi Direct, hotspot, and DLNA capabilities, making it versatile in connecting to various networks and devices. Bluetooth 4.0 with A2DP allowed for smooth wireless audio streaming and peripheral connectivity. With GPS and A-GPS, users could rely on precise location tracking for navigation. The inclusion of NFC added a layer of convenience for contactless payments and data exchanges. However, it didn’t integrate radio functionalities, which might have been a limitation for radio enthusiasts. It did offer a microUSB 2.0 port for charging and data transfer, which was common in devices from that period.

Sensors and Additional Features

To enhance the user experience, the Samsung I9500 Fraser was packed with several sensors, including an accelerometer, gyro, proximity sensor, and compass. These sensors facilitated various functionalities, such as screen rotation, navigation features, and augmented reality applications, enhancing the overall utility of the device.

Battery Life and Efficiency

The device was powered by a removable Li-Ion 1750 mAh battery, promoting ease of replacement and increasing the longevity of the device’s usability. This capacity was typical for smartphones during its time of release and provided users with a balance of performance and battery efficiency for day-to-day activities.

Concluding Remarks and Legacy

Despite its discontinuation, the Samsung I9500 Fraser stands out as an intriguing specimen from Samsung’s history, showcasing the brand’s venture into the Tizen operating system. While it did not achieve the commercial success of some contemporaries, it captured the interest of tech enthusiasts looking for an alternative to more mainstream avenues. The Fraser is a testament to Samsung’s innovative spirit and commitment to exploring new technologies, a concept that continues to drive the brand’s endeavors in today’s dynamic smartphone market.