Unveiling the Samsung S500i Specs Prices Pros & Cons

Introduction

The Samsung S500i is a notable entry in the feature phone category, representing a transitional period in mobile device technology. Introduced in Q4 of 2005, this device showcased several of the technological advancements of its time. Let's explore the features and specifications that distinguish the Samsung S500i as a substantial figure in mobile phone history.

Design and Build

The Samsung S500i boasts compact dimensions of 91 x 47 x 23 mm and a lightweight design weighing in at just 98 grams. This made it highly portable and easy to carry, fitting comfortably in the user's hand and pocket. The device is equipped with a Mini-SIM slot, a common feature during its time of release. The external build is simplistic yet robust, appealing to users seeking practicality over extravagance.

Display

The Samsung S500i features a TFT display capable of rendering 256K colors, providing vibrant visuals for its time. Though the display size isn't specified, it is clear that Samsung prioritized a compact form factor. The resolution of 240 x 320 pixels offers a fair degree of clarity, especially suited for a device that emphasizes fundamental functionality over high-definition media rendering.

Camera

Given its target market and time of release, the Samsung S500i introduced a 1.3 MP main camera complete with an LED flash, enabling basic photography needs. It can also record video, which was a significant feature during that period. Though basic by today's standards, these camera functionalities were sufficient for users who sought to capture quick, candid moments without requiring high-end photography capabilities.

Memory and Storage

The phone comes with 80MB of internal storage which was substantial for its category. Importantly, it includes a microSD card slot for expandable storage, accommodating users who needed additional space for contacts, messages, and multimedia. The Samsung S500i could store up to 1000 phonebook entries, with support for photo identification, along with maintaining call logs of 20 dialed, 20 received, and 20 missed calls—sufficient for the average consumer of that era.

Connectivity and Network

Operating on GSM technology and supporting 2G bands (GSM 900/1800/1900), the Samsung S500i offers GPRS class 10 services with EDGE capability. While not designed for full-fledged internet browsing as modern smartphones are, it featured a browser (i-mode) to support basic web access. Communication features also included Bluetooth 1.2 with A2DP, providing wireless audio streaming, a rarity among phones of this class at the time. Additionally, it supported infrared connectivity, enhancing its communication versatility.

Battery Life

The Samsung S500i is powered by a removable Li-Ion 800 mAh battery. Despite the seemingly modest capacity, it provided standby time of up to 190 hours and talk time of up to 3 hours. The relatively efficient energy consumption paired with the functionality provided ensured reasonable longevity between charges, aligning with the needs of a typical feature phone user.

Entertainment and Additional Features

On the entertainment front, the Samsung S500i supported vibration alerts and downloadable polyphonic and AAC ringtones. It offered some gaming options, featuring three pre-installed games with the option to download more, courtesy of Java support (DoJa 2.5). Unfortunately, the phone lacked a loudspeaker and a traditional 3.5mm headphone jack, reflecting some limitations in audio hardware.

Messaging and Software

This device was capable of handling SMS and MMS messaging, allowing users to send text and multimedia messages efficiently. While not equipped with a sophisticated operating system akin to modern smartphones, it functioned as a feature phone, emphasizing simplicity and stability in communication capabilities. Its software supports essential tasks without the complexities associated with more advanced devices.

Conclusion

The Samsung S500i stands out as a feature-rich phone that catered to user needs during its release period. It balanced competent communication features with basic multimedia capabilities, packaged in an ergonomic and user-friendly design. Serving as a snapshot of early to mid-2000s mobile technology, it fulfilled the fundamental demands of the era while ensuring accessibility and practicality for the average consumer.