Unveiling the Samsung S5550 Shark 2 Specs Prices & Insights

Introduction to Samsung S5550 Shark 2

The Samsung S5550 Shark 2, released in 2010, is a feature phone that was designed to offer essential mobile functionalities alongside a sleek design. Serving as a noteworthy model from Samsung's feature phone lineup, it provides a distinct balance of economy and capability suitable for users accustomed to basic yet reliable mobile experiences.

Design and Build

The Samsung S5550 Shark 2 is a compact phone with dimensions of 101.8 x 48.7 x 14.8 mm and weighs just 99 grams. Its light weight and smaller size make it convenient to carry and handle, easily fitting into pockets and small bags. The phone’s aesthetic appeal is enhanced by its glossy exterior and the choice of black or pink colors, making it not only functional but also a style statement for its time.

Display Features

This model features a 2.2-inch AMOLED display which supports up to 256K colors. While it might seem modest by modern standards, it offers a vibrant and clear viewing experience for tasks like checking messages and making calls. The resolution of 240 x 320 pixels translates to a density of approximately 182 ppi, providing adequately sharp images for casual viewing.

Camera Capabilities

The Samsung S5550 Shark 2 is equipped with a 5 MP main camera with autofocus and LED flash, allowing users to capture photos with satisfactory detail. It also supports video recording at 320p@30fps, enough for capturing key moments in motion. The presence of a front-facing camera is a bonus, catering to basic selfie needs.

Battery Performance

It houses a removable Li-Ion 960 mAh battery, which was quite standard for phones in this category at the time. Its power efficiency is highlighted by a stand-by time of up to 623 hours on 2G and 412 hours on 3G, along with a talk time of up to 11 hours and 40 minutes on 2G and up to 5 hours and 25 minutes on 3G, making it reliable for users with moderate usage demands.

Network and Connectivity

The device supports GSM and HSPA network technologies, covering a range of 2G and 3G bands including GSM 850/900/1800/1900 for 2G and HSDPA 900/2100 for 3G. Data speed can reach HSPA 3.6/0.384 Mbps, providing sufficient capabilities for basic internet browsing and multimedia messaging services. For wireless communication, it supports Bluetooth 2.1 with A2DP.

Memory and Storage

The phone includes an internal storage capacity of 110MB; however, this can be expanded using the dedicated microSDHC card slot. It supports extensive phonebook entries with photo call capabilities, and holds records for 30 dialed, 30 received, and 30 missed calls, making it efficient in managing contacts and call history.

Audio and Radio

For entertainment, the Samsung S5550 Shark 2 features a stereo FM radio with recording capabilities. However, it lacks a 3.5mm audio jack, so users might need an adapter or Bluetooth headset for private listening. The built-in loudspeaker facilitates external audio playback.

Additional Features

The phone supports SMS, MMS, email, and instant messaging, catering to diverse communication needs. Its browser supports WAP 2.0/xHTML and HTML, facilitating access to online resources. The phone also offers Java support (MIDP 2.0) for running basic applications and games, enhancing its utility beyond traditional phone functions.

Price and Availability

Initially available for about 130 EUR, the Samsung S5550 Shark 2 offered significant value with its combination of features and design. However, it has since been discontinued, making it primarily a collector's item or a secondary phone for users today.

Conclusion

The Samsung S5550 Shark 2 represents an era where feature phones were at their peak, providing essential communication functionalities in a compact and stylish form. While modern smartphones have surpassed the capabilities of feature phones like the Shark 2, its balance of features offered convenience, style, and reliability to its users during its time in the market.