Samsung S401i Specs Pricing Pros & Cons Uncovered

Overview of Samsung S401i

The Samsung S401i was introduced as a feature phone in July 2006. It was designed to cater to users who preferred basic mobile features without the complexities of modern smartphones. The phone comes with some core functionalities such as calling, messaging, and limited multimedia features.

Network and Connectivity

The Samsung S401i operates on GSM technology and supports GSM 900 / 1800 / 1900 bands. This ensures that it can connect to 2G networks which were prevalent during its release time. For data, it supports GPRS Class 10, allowing users to engage in basic internet browsing with the iMode browser. It lacks support for more advanced connectivity options seen in later models, such as EDGE, WLAN, or positioning services.

Design and Build

With dimensions of 88 x 44 x 19.8 mm and a weight of only 75 grams, the Samsung S401i is compact and lightweight. The design supports a Mini-SIM card and is enclosed in a simple form factor that fits easily in the palm or pocket. It was available primarily in black, highlighting its sleek and subtle appearance suitable for professional and casual settings alike.

Display Features

The device boasts a TFT display capable of rendering 65,000 colors, with a resolution of 128 x 160 pixels. While this pales in comparison to today’s high-definition screens, it was adequate for displaying simple graphics, menus, and text messages at the time.

Memory and Storage

Internally, the Samsung S401i provides 25MB of storage. This space accommodates a phonebook that can store up to 1000 entries, along with records of 10 dialed, 10 received, and 10 missed calls. The absence of a memory card slot limits expansion, keeping users reliant on the internal storage capacity provided.

Camera Specifications

The phone includes a single VGA (0.3 MP) rear camera, which supports basic photography and video recording. Unlike modern devices with advanced multi-lens setups, the camera on the S401i caters to simple image capturing without advanced settings or quality expectations.

Sound and Multimedia

Auditory features of the device include downloadable polyphonic and MP3 ringtones, alongside vibration alerts. The absence of a loudspeaker and 3.5mm audio jack means users must rely on its internal earpiece, making personal listening experiences limited.

Communication Features

Available communication channels on the device include Bluetooth, allowing file transfers to other Bluetooth-enabled devices, which was quite a beneficial feature during its release. However, there is no provision for radio or standard USB, as it uses a proprietary connection for data transfer and charging needs.

Additional Features and Battery

The Samsung S401i supports several messaging formats (SMS, EMS, MMS) and comes with two built-in games and Java support (DoJa 1.5). These features offered limited entertainment and application expansion options. The phone runs on a removable Li-Ion 800 mAh battery, providing up to 200 hours in standby mode and up to 4 hours of talk time, which was quite standard for devices of its era.

Conclusion

The Samsung S401i serves as a reflection of mobile technology in the mid-2000s, built for users seeking functionality over advanced capabilities. Its simple design, basic camera, limited connectivity options, and essential communication tools made it ideal for those needing a straightforward phone. While it doesn't stand up to modern standards, it holds historical significance in Samsung's mobile lineup and serves as a reminder of how far mobile technology has evolved.