Price and specifications of Samsung P400 advantages, disadvantages, and a comprehensive explanation

Overview of Samsung P400

The Samsung P400 was a unique mobile device when it was announced in the first quarter of 2003. Catering primarily to early adopters of mobile technology and professionals, this feature phone showcased several innovative design elements and features that were advanced for its time. Although it lacks some of the modern features we are accustomed to today, it serves as an interesting case study in the evolution of mobile technology.

Network Capabilities

The Samsung P400 operated on the GSM network with support for GSM 900/1800/1900 bands. Although it did not support EDGE technology for faster data transfer rates, it was equipped with GPRS Class 8 to facilitate basic mobile data services. This was sufficient for simple web browsing using WAP 1.2, a widespread browser technology in the early 2000s.

Launch and Market Reach

Upon its launch in early 2003, the Samsung P400 was quickly recognized for its innovative features, though it has since been discontinued. Its striking design, along with its feature set, helped it gain traction in markets that valued style and brand prestige, even if it did not match the cutting-edge performance of other high-end models from competitors at the time.

Design and Build Quality

With dimensions of 91 x 48 x 23 mm and a weight of 105 g, the Samsung P400 could be considered compact by today’s standards. The phone used a Mini-SIM, which was a standard size then. It featured a rotating lens for its camera, which was a standout design choice allowing for flexible camera angles, especially when taking selfies. The design favored metallic silver, giving it a sleek and sophisticated appearance.

Display Features

The Samsung P400 featured a TFD display capable of rendering 65,000 colors, with a resolution of 128 x 160 pixels. Although not particularly large or high-definition by modern standards, the display was quite serviceable for the time, especially for viewing contacts, messages, and the occasional simple game application.

Memory and Data Storage

The device's memory was rather limited, typical of feature phones of that era. It did not support any memory card slots, meaning users were dependent on the built-in storage, which was primarily used for storing contact entries and SMS. Users could maintain up to 1000 contacts, along with a detailed call log featuring the last 20 dialed, received, and missed calls.

Camera Specifications

The Samsung P400 offered a single CIF camera with a 0.1MP resolution and a unique 180-degree rotating lens system. This aspect was particularly innovative for its time as it allowed users the versatility to toggle between traditional photo-taking and selfies. However, it did not support video recording, which could be seen as a limitation by today’s standards.

Sound and Alert Features

The audio capabilities were fundamental, focused on polyphonic ringtone downloads instead of a loudspeaker, which was typical of devices from this period. There was no support for a 3.5mm audio jack, suggesting a limitation in external audio output customization, critical in an era before Bluetooth became widespread.

Communication and Connectivity

In terms of connectivity, the Samsung P400 lacked Bluetooth and WLAN but offered an infrared port—a common technology for short-range file transfer back then. Other modern-day staples, like GPS and radio, were also absent, limiting the device to basic communications and file transfer functionalities.

Additional Features and Software

The Samsung P400 was equipped with messaging capabilities such as SMS, EMS, and MMS, supporting the need for both business and casual communication. It came with a basic WAP 1.2 browser, making it capable of accessing mobile-adapted websites. Despite these limited internet capabilities, it featured traditional utilities like a clock and alarm alongside basic gaming options and support for Java MIDP 2.0, enabling simple applets and games.

Battery Performance

The device was powered by a removable Li-Ion 900 mAh battery, with a slighter variant of Li-Ion 720 mAh also available. The battery life, in standby, could last up to 140 hours and provided up to 5 hours of talk time, which was quite impressive for a phone in its category. These specs provided users with reliable day-to-day use without frequent recharging, aligning well with the feature set offered.

Concluding Thoughts

Samsung P400 stands as an exemplar of early 2000s mobile technology, marrying fundamental communication features with creative design choices. While it may not compete with modern smartphones, its unique rotating camera and design reflect a period of rapid technological advancements and diversification in mobile phone design. For enthusiasts of early mobile technology, it remains a notable piece of tech history worth exploring.