Design and Build
The Samsung S501i is a compact feature phone launched in July 2006. Its design is characterized by its small dimensions of 89.7 x 46 x 19.5 mm and a lightweight build, weighing just 80 grams. This makes it easy to slip into a pocket or purse without adding noticeable weight, appealing to users who prefer compact and easily portable devices. The body is constructed with durability in mind, equipped with a Mini-SIM slot for connectivity. The overall aesthetic is sleek and simple, ideal for users looking for straightforward functionality without unnecessary frills.
Display
The Samsung S501i is fitted with a TFT display capable of producing 256K colors. Though the exact size of the display is unspecified, it offers a resolution of 176 x 220 pixels, adequate for the time when high-definition screens were not yet standard in feature phones. This screen allows users to view text, basic images, and menus with satisfactory clarity. Its bright and colorful display enriches the user experience, making navigation intuitive and visually pleasing.
Camera
Equipped with a single 1.3 MP main camera, the S501i caters to the basic photographic needs of its users. While it may not compete with modern smartphone cameras, it was fairly standard for its time, allowing users to capture simple, low-resolution images and CIF-quality videos. This feature provided added functionality for users wanting to capture moments on the go without requiring high-end photographic results.
Memory and Storage
The internal memory of the S501i is limited to 80MB, which can be expanded using its dedicated microSD slot, a welcome feature for storing additional media and applications. The phone also supports a phonebook capacity of 1000 entries, sufficient for personal and professional contacts. Additionally, it keeps track of call records, maintaining logs for 10 dialed, 10 received, and 10 missed calls, providing users a way to manage their communication history efficiently.
Battery Life
Powered by a removable Li-Ion 750 mAh battery, the S501i offers a stand-by time of up to 210 hours and a talk time of up to 3 hours and 30 minutes. For a feature phone, these battery specs ensure the device can remain operational for prolonged periods without frequent recharging, appealing to users needing reliability and consistency in everyday use.
Network and Connectivity
The phone supports GSM technology with 2G bands on the 900, 1800, and 1900 MHz frequencies, meaning it is capable of basic cellular communication and SMS services. Although it does not support modern data connectivity standards like 3G or 4G, it does offer GPRS Class 10 for more rudimentary internet access. Bluetooth support is available, allowing short-range wireless communication, while lacking Wi-Fi, GPS, and radio features, which limits the device's connectivity to basic communication needs.
Audio and Multimedia
In terms of sound, the S501i does not feature a loudspeaker or a 3.5mm headphone jack. It supports vibration alerts and offers downloadable polyphonic and MP3 ringtones, providing users with customization options for incoming calls and messages. Despite the lack of a loudspeaker, these audio capabilities were typical of feature phones at the time.
Software and Features
As a feature phone, the S501i operates on a simplistic user-friendly platform. It supports a range of messaging options, including SMS, EMS, and MMS, catering to varied communication needs. The built-in WAP 2.0/xHTML browser with iMode allows for limited web browsing, while Java support (DoJa 2.5) enables running simple applications and games. Although it comes pre-installed with just one game, these features add a layer of entertainment beyond basic communication.
Overall Assessment
The Samsung S501i is a representation of mid-2000s mobile technology, offering essential features for straightforward communication and entertainment. It is well-suited for users seeking a no-frills, reliable mobile experience. While it lacks advanced capabilities that are common in smartphones today, its simplicity, build quality, and basic connectivity options were hugely beneficial to its target demographic. Despite being discontinued, the S501i remains a notable example of early mobile phone innovation.
Key Features of Samsung S501i
- GSM Technology with support for GSM 900 / 1800 / 1900 bands
- Compact dimensions: 89.7 x 46 x 19.5 mm with a lightweight design (80 g)
- TFT display supporting 256K colors
- Expandable memory card slot (microSD) with 80MB internal memory
- 1.3 MP main camera with video recording capability (CIF)
- Bluetooth connectivity
- Messaging features: SMS, EMS, MMS
- Downloadable polyphonic and MP3 ringtones
- Removable Li-Ion 750 mAh battery offering standby time up to 210 hours
- Java support with DoJa 2.5
Samsung S501i Drawbacks
- Lacks EDGE technology for faster mobile data connectivity.
- The device is discontinued and not available for purchase.
- The screen size is not specified, assuming it is relatively small given the time of release.
- The resolution of 176 x 220 pixels is low by modern standards.
- Limited internal storage of 80MB, which is insufficient for extensive multimedia storage.
- Only a 1.3 MP main camera, which provides low-quality images.
- No selfie camera available.
- No loudspeaker functionality.
- No 3.5mm headphone jack, limiting audio accessory compatibility.
- No WLAN capability, thus no Wi-Fi connectivity.
- No inbuilt GPS or navigation features.
- Absence of an FM radio.
- Uses a proprietary USB connector, which limits compatibility with standard cables.
- Battery capacity of 750 mAh is quite low, resulting in limited usage time.
- Only one pre-installed game, limiting entertainment options.
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