Samsung SCHW699 Full Specs Features Pros & Cons Unveiled

Introduction to Samsung SCH-W699

The Samsung SCH-W699 is a striking example of the feature phones that were popular in the late 2000s. Released in April 2009, this mobile device offered a unique blend of functionality and style, targeting users who were looking for more than just basic telephony. Despite its discontinuation, the SCH-W699 remains a notable mention in Samsung's vast lineup, owing to its distinctive design and dual SIM capability.

Build and Design

The Samsung SCH-W699 manifests a clam-shell design that was widely appreciated in its time. With dimensions of 98 x 56 x 19.9 mm and weighing 120 g, it strikes a balance between portability and sturdy construction. The phone's look is completed with a classic color palette named "Gold on black," which provides an elegant aesthetic appeal.

Display Characteristics

Equipped with a 2.8-inch TFT screen, the SCH-W699 offers a display resolution of 240 x 320 pixels. While small by modern standards, the screen suits the phone's functionalities — primarily message reading, dialing, and executing basic feature phone tasks. The display is capable of showing 256K colors, which was quite standard for feature phones in that era.

Camera Capabilities

A 5 MP rear camera with autofocus technology serves as the main image capturing device in the SCH-W699. It also features an LED flash for improved photo quality in low-light conditions. Although there isn't a front-facing selfie camera, the main camera supports video recording at 480p@15fps, adequate for capturing simple videos.

Performance and Software

Running on a feature phone operating system, the SCH-W699 is focused more on efficiency over power. It does not contain a smartphone-grade processor or extensive RAM; nonetheless, it sufficiently supports the phone’s basic functionalities like calling, texting, MMS, and simple games with Java MIDP 2.0. Bluetooth 2.0 and A2DP support provide options for wireless audio and file transfers.

Connectivity and Networks

The SCH-W699 is equipped to operate on both GSM and CDMA networks, featuring 2G bands for GSM 900/1800/1900 frequencies. It supports GPRS Class 10 and EDGE Class 10 for data connectivity. Though lacking modern WLAN options, its GPS feature allows for basic location services, complemented by a Stereo FM radio for entertainment purposes.

Battery Life and Management

Powering this device is a removable Li-Ion 1200 mAh battery. It promises a stand-by time of up to 200 hours and a talk time of around 4 hours. The need for charging is economically spread over a reasonable period, considering the power consumption of feature phone tasks.

Additional Features

Some auxiliary traits of the Samsung SCH-W699 include the capability to store up to 1,000 entries in the phonebook with photocall feature, signifying contact list customization. The device also provides essential messaging services comprising SMS, MMS, and email support. Despite lacking a 3.5mm audio jack, the phone encompasses essential multimedia and Java applications.

Conclusion

Though the Samsung SCH-W699 was eventually discontinued, it still stands as a quintessential illustration of the era’s feature phone market. The melding of dual SIM functionality, photography capability within a basic platform, and distinct design made it appealing at the time of its release. While it doesn't cater to sophisticated smartphone users today, for its time, it packed an impressive array of features into an affordable package.