Samsung L320 Comprehensive Review of Features Specs and Pricing

Introduction

The Samsung L320 is a feature phone that was announced in January 2008 and was released in February of the same year. Although it has been discontinued, the Samsung L320 remains a notable entry in the history of mobile technology due to its unique features tailored to the needs of the market during its release period. This article aims to delve into the details of the Samsung L320, outlining its specifications, design, and overall performance.

Design and Build

The Samsung L320 sports a compact design with dimensions of 89 x 45.5 x 23.5 mm. This makes it one of the more portable devices, easily fitting in the user's pocket or handbag. The phone’s form factor is practical, with a screen-to-body ratio of approximately 28.1%, which may seem small by today's standards, but was adequate for a feature phone of its time. The phone is presented in a sleek black color, appealing to users who prefer a simple and elegant aesthetic.

Display

The L320 is equipped with a 1.9-inch TFT display, supporting 65K colors. The resolution of 176 x 220 pixels (~148 ppi density) ensures that images and text are clear enough for the basic tasks that the phone is intended for. This level of resolution is typical for feature phones of that era, focusing on functionality over the high-definition displays we see in smartphones today.

Camera

In terms of photography, the Samsung L320 includes a single 2 MP main camera, capable of capturing basic images and videos. While it does not feature a front-facing selfie camera, the rear camera adequately caters to the simple photography needs of its users, such as capturing moments on the go.

Memory and Storage

The device offers 20MB of internal storage, which is modest but acceptable for a feature phone's requirements, focusing on phone calls, messages, and simple multimedia storage. There is a dedicated microSD slot available, allowing users to expand the storage capacity should they require additional space for media or applications.

Connectivity

Connectivity on the Samsung L320 is aligned with its feature phone status. It supports GSM technology with capabilities for GPRS and EDGE data. The inclusion of Bluetooth 2.0 with A2DP ensures wireless connectivity with other Bluetooth-enabled devices. However, there is no WLAN or GPS functionality, which limits its connectivity compared to later smartphone generations. The device uses a USB 1.1 connection for charging and data transfer.

Battery

The L320 houses a removable battery, a common feature in phones from this period. Removability allows users to replace the battery if needed, extending the device's lifespan. However, specific details about the battery capacity are not provided, a typical situation for feature phones where battery life was generally sufficient for several days on standby or when using basic functionalities.

Operating System and Performance

As a feature phone, the Samsung L320 does not run a smartphone operating system like Android or iOS. Instead, it uses a proprietary OS designed to offer essential functionalities such as calling, texting, and organizing basic tasks. The performance is tailored to these tasks, with hardware that supports efficiency and reliability in day-to-day use.

Additional Features

In addition to its primary functionality, the Samsung L320 supports Java MIDP 2.0, allowing for the download and installation of additional mobile applications and games. The phone includes WAP 2.0/xHTML browser capabilities for basic internet browsing. Users can enjoy downloadable polyphonic and MP3 ringtones, personalizing the phone's audio notifications.

Network Compatibility

The device is compatible with GSM networks on 900, 1800, and 1900 bands, making it usable in many global regions with GSM infrastructure. This compatibility suits users who need to travel but prefer the simplicity of a feature phone.

Conclusion

While the Samsung L320 may not boast the advanced capabilities or specifications of modern smartphones, it is a solid representation of feature phone technology. Its basic camera, expandable memory, reliable connectivity, and compact design make it a suitable option for users prioritizing essential functions over smartphone complexities. Discontinued yet memorable, the Samsung L320 remains part of Samsung's diverse mobile lineup history, catering to those who value simplicity and functionality.