Price and specifications of Samsung I997 Infuse 4G advantages, disadvantages, and a comprehensive explanation

Overview of the Samsung I997 Infuse 4G

The Samsung I997 Infuse 4G, released in May 2011, marked a significant point in smartphone history. Targeted towards the growing market of Android users, it was designed for speed and efficiency, making use of HSPA technology for faster data transfer. Although it has been discontinued, the Infuse 4G remained memorable for its time, offering competitive features and a sleek design, cementing Samsung's position as a leader in the smartphone industry.

Design and Build

The device boasts a compact and slim design with dimensions of 132 x 71 x 9 mm and a weight of 139g. It fits comfortably in the hand despite its large 4.5-inch screen, thanks to the well-thought-out design. The front is protected by Corning Gorilla Glass, ensuring durability against scratches and minor impacts. With a Mini-SIM slot, the device was standard for its time, offering a balance between functionality and aesthetics.

Display

The Infuse 4G features a Super AMOLED Plus display, which was cutting-edge technology at the time, providing vibrant colors and deep contrasts. Its 4.5-inch screen comes with a resolution of 480 x 800 pixels, resulting in around 207 ppi density. The screen-to-body ratio of approximately 61.5% enabled an immersive viewing experience, making it ideal for media consumption.

Camera Capabilities

When it comes to photography, the device comes equipped with an 8 MP main camera that includes autofocus and an LED flash. This configuration was quite capable during its release, allowing for decent-quality images under various lighting conditions. It also supports 720p video recording, which was a popular resolution at the time. The 1.3 MP front camera, while basic by modern standards, allowed users to video call and take selfies, marking the early days of front-facing camera use.

Performance

Under the hood, the Infuse 4G is powered by a 1.2 GHz Cortex-A8 processor. The smartphone initially shipped with Android 2.2 Froyo but was upgradable to Android 2.3 Gingerbread. These specifications provided a fluid and responsive user experience for the apps and functionalities available at that time.

Memory and Storage

With 16 GB of internal storage, the device offered substantial space for applications, media, and other essential files. Additionally, it supported expandable storage via a microSDHC slot, further increasing its storage capabilities. A 2 GB microSD card was often included, providing flexibility for users needing extra storage.

Battery Life

The device includes a removable Li-Ion 1750 mAh battery, which delivered a standby time of up to 400 hours and talk time of up to 8 hours. This was a significant feature, allowing users to swap out the battery easily if needed, extending the usable life of the device during the course of a day.

Connectivity and Features

The Samsung I997 Infuse 4G provided several connectivity options, including Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n and DLNA for easily sharing media with compatible devices. Bluetooth 3.0 with A2DP enabled wireless audio streaming, and positioning capabilities via GPS and A-GPS supported location-based services. The lack of a radio was a downside; however, the inclusion of a microUSB 2.0 port allowed for convenient charging and data transfer.

Audio and Multimedia

The device supports audio playback through a loudspeaker and 3.5mm audio jack, maintaining a standard that many users preferred for personal listening. The multimedia experience was enhanced with support for various file formats, ensuring compatibility across different media types.

Additional Features

Equipped with sensors such as an accelerometer, proximity sensor, and compass, the device could support a range of applications, from gaming to navigation. The browser supported HTML and Adobe Flash, essential for a rich browsing experience during that era.

Pricing and Market Position

At a launch price of about 130 EUR, the Samsung I997 Infuse 4G positioned itself as an affordable option for users looking for a comprehensive smartphone experience without the premium cost associated with high-end devices. Available in Caviar Black, it presented a professional and sophisticated aesthetic.

Conclusion

The Samsung I997 Infuse 4G was a flagship device during its time, offering an impressive array of features that catered to both power users and casual consumers. While it has since been surpassed by newer technologies, it set a precedent for the capabilities expected in modern smartphones. It remains a testament to Samsung's innovation and commitment to quality, having left its mark on the smartphone industry.