Samsung M100 Comprehensive Review Specs and Pricing Unveiled

Introduction to Samsung M100

The Samsung M100, released in 2000, is an early example of feature phones, representing a period when mobile technology was beginning to become more accessible to the general consumer. As a vintage piece of technology, it provides a snapshot of the early innovations in mobile communications. Despite its limited capabilities compared to modern smartphones, the Samsung M100 played a significant role in shaping consumer expectations and the mobile phone landscape.

Design and Build

The Samsung M100 features a compact and robust design, with dimensions of 106 x 44 x 19.3 mm and a weight of 97 grams, making it lightweight and easy to carry. Its minimalist design includes a monochrome graphic display that measures 128 x 64 pixels. The phone's body is made from durable materials, which was typical for that era, ensuring it could withstand the rigors of daily use.

Display

The monochrome graphic display of the Samsung M100 offers a simple interface that was typical of mobile phones at the time. While it might seem primitive compared to today's high-resolution colorful displays, it served its purpose effectively by offering clear visibility of information and ease of use in a user-friendly manner. The display supports a resolution of 128 x 64 pixels, with a 4-line text display option, which was adequate for reading messages and accessing the phone's menus.

Memory and Storage

With an internal storage capacity of 32MB, the Samsung M100 did not offer expandable storage through a card slot, which is a stark contrast to modern smartphones that often support vast amounts of additional storage. However, it allowed users to store essential data like contact information, supporting up to 100 entries in the phonebook, and call records, including 10 dialed, 10 received, and 10 missed calls.

Sound and Alerts

The sound capabilities of the Samsung M100 were limited. It provided monophonic ringtones and had a vibration alert feature, crucial for discreet notifications. The absence of a loudspeaker and 3.5mm audio jack was typical of the time when music and media consumption were not central features of mobile phones.

Communication Features

The M100’s communication features were quite basic, reflecting the technological limitations of the period. It supported GSM networks (900/1800), without GPRS or EDGE support, constraining it to simple voice calls and SMS texts. The phone lacked modern connectivity options such as Bluetooth and Wi-Fi. However, it did offer an infrared port, commonly used for wireless data exchange at the time.

Battery Life

Featuring a removable Li-Ion battery with a capacity of 800mAh, the Samsung M100 was designed to withstand the day's demands adequately. With a standby time of approximately 40 hours and a talk time of about 2 hours, the battery achieved longevity fashionable for standard handset usage and expectations at that time.

User Interface and Software

The Samsung M100 ran on a proprietary feature phone operating system with a simple menu-based interface. It supported basic functionalities like a clock, alarm, and a few pre-installed games, which contributed to its usability. Although it didn’t support Java applications, it provided entertainment and utility necessary for typical user needs.

Miscellaneous Features

The phone was available in three colors, offering a slight range of personalization options for users. Its design was utilitarian but considered stylish and adequate for mobile users seeking reliable communication devices without extra features. The Samsung M100 also supported 20 languages, enhancing its accessibility to a broader range of users globally.

Nostalgia and Historical Importance

The Samsung M100 represents a crucial phase in mobile device evolution, from basic mobile handsets to advanced smartphones. For technology enthusiasts and those nostalgic for simpler times, the M100 remains a charming relic of early 21st-century mobile technology when long battery life and durability were praised over advanced functions.

Conclusion

The Samsung M100, with its basic features, robust design, and limited functionality, serves as a historical artifact in mobile phone development. It reminds us of the significant strides technology has made over the years, from early feature phones to today's sophisticated smart devices. While it may not hold significant value in terms of functionality today, the M100 is invaluable for its role in the mobile technology continuum, contributing a vital chapter to the story.