Samsung S3030 Tobi Unveiling Specs Prices & Features

Introduction to Samsung S3030 Tobi

The Samsung S3030 Tobi, announced in November 2008 and released in December of the same year, is a feature phone designed for users seeking simplicity and essential mobile functions. It was discontinued after its initial release but has left a mark due to its colorful design and basic functionalities, appealing primarily to a younger audience or those seeking a secondary phone.

Network and Connectivity

The Samsung S3030 Tobi operates on GSM technology supporting 2G networks with bands GSM 900 / 1800 / 1900. The phone provides GPRS Class 10 for mobile data but does not support EDGE. Unfortunately, the lack of 3G or higher-end connectivity options means users are limited to basic web browsing and network functions.

Design and Build

Physically, the S3030 Tobi is a compact device, with dimensions of 94.7 x 45.4 x 17.5 mm and a weight of 85 grams. The phone is crafted to be lightweight and portable, perfect for carrying around without hassle. Its design caters to younger users, featuring a colorful body available in Sweet Pink, Loyal Blue, Apple Green, Bright Orange, Oasis Blue, and Snow Silver. The SIM card slot accommodates a Mini-SIM.

Display Characteristics

The device comes with a 1.9-inch TFT screen capable of displaying 65K colors, boasting a resolution of 176 x 220 pixels. Although the screen-to-body ratio is approximately 26.4%, the display adequately covers essential phone functions such as calls, messaging, and basic tasks.

Memory and Storage

The Samsung S3030 Tobi provides an internal memory of 15MB, which is quite minimal by today’s standards. The phone does, however, include a dedicated microSDHC card slot for expandable storage, allowing users to store more media and applications. It supports a phonebook capacity of up to 1000 entries with photo call functionality, and logs for 30 dialed, received, and missed calls.

Camera Capabilities

Photography on the S3030 Tobi is basic, with a 1.3 MP primary camera suitable for capturing simple images and videos. While there's no front-facing or selfie camera, the rear camera offers essential functionality for documenting moments as needed.

Sound and Audio

The phone is equipped with a loudspeaker, but it lacks a 3.5mm headphone jack, limiting audio connectivity options. Hence, users may have to rely on Bluetooth headsets or the included speaker for audio playback and calls.

Communications and Features

Connectivity options are somewhat limited, without WLAN, positioning services, or FM radio. However, the phone supports Bluetooth 2.0 with A2DP for wireless audio and data transfer, along with USB 2.0 for physical connections. Messaging capabilities include SMS and MMS, and the device features a WAP 2.0/xHTML browser for light web browsing. Java support via MIDP 2.0 allows for basic downloadable games and applications, with a selection of pre-installed games available.

Battery Performance

The Samsung S3030 Tobi is powered by a removable Li-Ion 800 mAh battery, delivering standby time up to 260 hours and talk time of approximately 5 hours. This battery capacity might be low for intensive users, but it suits the feature phone designation that the Tobi occupies.

Pricing and Availability

When it was available, the S3030 Tobi retailed for approximately 90 EUR. Although it has been discontinued, the device can still occasionally be found in online markets or second-hand phone stores.

Conclusion

The Samsung S3030 Tobi represents a class of phones that features simplicity and accessibility. Its playful design and essential features make it a suitable choice for young users. While modern smartphone functionalities are absent, the Tobi offers a nostalgic return to simpler mobile device days.