Samsung R200 Comprehensive Review of Specs Prices & Features

Overview of the Samsung R200

The Samsung R200 was a feature phone introduced in 2001, and during its release, it was a significant addition to Samsung's lineup of mobile phones. Designed for simplicity and durability, the device was aimed at users who wanted essential mobile communication without the frills of more advanced smartphones.

Design and Build

The Samsung R200 had a compact and lightweight design, measuring 110 x 46 x 23.5 mm and weighing only 99 grams. Its design was conventional for its time, featuring a slightly curved body that was comfortable to hold and use with one hand. The device was available in three colors: Navy Blue, Green, and Dark Gray, which gave users a bit of personalization choice.

Display

The Samsung R200 featured a monochrome graphic display with a resolution of 128 x 64 pixels and an 18:9 aspect ratio. This type of display, common in early 2000s phones, was functional for viewing text and basic graphics but did not support color, making it unsuitable for advanced multimedia content.

Network and Connectivity

This device supported GSM technology and operated on the 900/1800 MHz bands. It did not offer GPRS or EDGE capabilities, meaning it could only support basic voice and text communications. The absence of WLAN, Bluetooth, and other modern connectivity features highlighted its position as an entry-level device for straightforward mobile use.

Memory and Storage

The Samsung R200 came with internal storage capacities that limited its capabilities. There was no card slot for expandable memory, and it could store up to 100 contacts in the phonebook. In terms of call records, it kept logs for 10 dialed, 10 received, and 10 missed calls, which was standard for phones of that era.

Battery Life

Equipped with a removable Li-Ion battery of 750mAh, the Samsung R200 provided a standby time of up to 150 hours and a talk time of approximately 5 hours. This battery life was adequate, given the limited functionality of the device, ensuring that users could go days without needing a recharge during typical use.

Sound and Alerts

The phone did not have a loudspeaker or a 3.5mm jack for headphones, which might have been a limitation for users wanting to use hands-free or audio features. However, it did support vibration alerts and downloadable monophonic ringtones. It also included a ringtone composer, allowing users to create custom ringtones, a popular feature at the time.

Software and Features

Operating as a feature phone, the Samsung R200 included essential software applications such as SMS messaging and a WAP 1.1 browser for basic internet access. It also offered utility applications like a clock, alarm, and a small selection of games, including Casino, Mole, and Hexa. These features catered to users looking for basic mobile phone functionality without additional complexities present in more advanced devices.

Legacy and Impact

The Samsung R200 holds a place in mobile phone history as a durable, simple device that prioritized functionality over flashy features. It represents a period in mobile technology where the focus was on reliable voice communication and basic text messaging, before the widespread adoption of smartphones. This phone appealed to users who valued battery life, ease of use, and the sturdy build associated with early mobile devices.

Conclusion

In retrospect, the Samsung R200 is a reminder of the technological stepping stones that paved the way for today’s advanced smartphones. While the device may seem primitive compared to modern standards, it was functional and met the essential needs of communication in its time. For users back in the early 2000s, the R200 provided a bridge between the analog past and the digital future, serving as a reliable medium for staying connected.