Samsung Metro TV Overview
The Samsung Metro TV is a feature phone that was released in April 2010. It represents a unique blend of basic smartphone functionalities and multimedia capabilities, particularly focusing on its TV functionality. The device was designed to cater to users who sought reliable connectivity along with entertainment features, especially in regions where mobile TV services were gaining popularity.
Design and Build
The Samsung Metro TV features a compact design suited to the needs of users who preferred straightforward functionality over complex smartphone designs. Although the exact dimensions and weight of the device are not specified, it is characterized by its lightweight and easy-to-hold body. The phone supports a Mini-SIM, aligning with its status as a feature phone typical of its release period.
Display
Equipped with a 2.0-inch TFT display capable of rendering 256K colors, the Samsung Metro TV provides a resolution of 240 x 320 pixels, offering adequate display quality for everyday mobile activities. The pixel density of approximately 200 ppi ensures that text and images are clear enough despite the small screen size compared to modern standards.
Camera Capabilities
For photography, the Samsung Metro TV features a basic 2 MP single rear camera. While not advanced by today's smartphone standards, it was sufficient for capturing simple photos and videos, catering to users who required the occasional photo capture on-the-go.
Memory and Storage
The phone includes a dedicated microSDHC card slot, offering flexibility to expand storage according to user needs. This feature was particularly useful for users who needed more space for multimedia storage, like videos that could be recorded or downloaded to watch later. The phone's capacity to store up to 1000 phonebook entries ensures ample space for contact management.
Connectivity and Networking
The Samsung Metro TV operates on CDMA technology with support for 2G and 3G bands (CDMA 800/1900 and CDMA2000 1xEV-DO respectively). This allowed users to enjoy network connectivity suitable for its time, achieving speeds up to 153.2 Kbps under EV-DO Rev.0. The device also includes Bluetooth 2.2 with A2DP and EDR support, enabling easier sharing of data and connectivity with other Bluetooth-enabled devices.
Entertainment and Media
One of the key highlights of the Samsung Metro TV is its TV functionality, which permits users to watch TV programs directly on the phone—this was a notable feature for people who valued portable entertainment. Besides, the phone comes with a Stereo FM radio with RDS for a broader selection of audio entertainment. However, it lacks a 3.5mm headphone jack, potentially limiting its audio output capabilities to its built-in loudspeaker or requiring specific adapters.
Battery Life
Powering the Samsung Metro TV is a removable Li-Ion battery. It offers up to 200 hours of standby time and up to 4 hours of talk time, a reasonable battery life that meets basic communication needs without demanding frequent recharging. This specification underscores its utility in regions where charging opportunities might be infrequent.
Operating System and User Interface
Samsung Metro TV runs on a feature phone operating system, focusing on simplicity and reliability. Essential functions such as SMS, MMS, and email are supported, alongside a WAP 2.0/xHTML browser and basic HTML browsing capabilities. The absence of Java limits additional app downloads, though it does support downloadable games.
Market Position and Pricing
Upon release, the Samsung Metro TV was priced at approximately €80, targeting budget-conscious consumers and those who preferred a straightforward mobile phone experience. Available in black, the phone was designed for durability and functionality, appealing especially to demographics less interested in leading-edge smartphone innovations.
Conclusion
In summary, the Samsung Metro TV was a key offering from Samsung in the early 2010s targeted at consumers looking for budget-friendly devices with reliable multimedia capabilities. Its unique selling point, the mobile TV feature, combined with its basic functionalities made it a popular choice in its category. Though discontinued now, it remains a notable part of Samsung's evolution in catering to different market needs.
Main Features of Samsung Metro TV
- Supports CDMA / EVDO network technology for reliable connectivity.
- Compact display of 2.0 inches with 256K colors and 240 x 320 pixels resolution, providing good clarity.
- Expandable memory option with microSDHC card slot for additional storage.
- 2 MP main camera capable of video recording, allowing basic photography.
- Stereo FM radio with RDS support for enhanced listening experience.
- Bluetooth 2.2 with A2DP and EDR for multiple connectivity options.
- Removable Li-Ion battery offering up to 200 hours standby and up to 4 hours talk time.
- Supports multiple messaging formats including SMS, MMS, and Email.
- Economical price, approximately 80 EUR.
Disadvantages of Samsung Metro TV
- No support for GSM networks; operates on CDMA only, limiting its use in regions dominated by GSM.
- Discontinued model, meaning no official support or updates.
- No 3.5mm headphone jack, which can be inconvenient for users who prefer wired audio connections.
- Lacks Wi-Fi connectivity, restricting internet use to slower network speeds (EV-DO Rev.0, 153.2 Kbps).
- No positioning or GPS features, which might be a limitation for users who rely on navigation apps.
- Proprietary USB for charging and data transfer, making it less convenient when needing replacements or spares.
- The phone lacks both a secondary (selfie) camera and additional sensors that are common in modern devices.
- No support for Java apps, limiting the range of applications that can run on this device.
- Small screen size of 2.0 inches, which is less suitable for modern multimedia consumption and internet browsing.
- Low screen resolution (~200 ppi density), which may result in less sharp and clear display.
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