Samsung T429 Review Specs Pricing Pros & Cons Unveiled

Introduction to Samsung T429

The Samsung T429 is a feature phone that was announced in September 2007 and has since been discontinued. Though it may not boast the advanced capabilities of current smartphones, it serves as a remarkable example of mobile technology from the mid-2000s. It was designed as a straightforward and functional mobile device, primarily aimed at communication and basic multimedia uses.

Design and Build

The Samsung T429 features a compact and lightweight design, weighing only 100 grams. Its dimensions (99.6 x 49.2 x 14.2 mm) make it easy to handle and store in a pocket or handbag. The phone accommodates a Mini-SIM and offers a sturdy design, making it durable for everyday use. Available in Black and Blue color options, it presented a sleek look resonating with the design trends of its era.

Display Characteristics

The phone is equipped with a 2.0-inch TFT display capable of showing 65K colors. The resolution of the screen is 128 x 160 pixels, which results in a pixel density of approximately 102 ppi. While it may not compare to the vividness and clarity of modern smartphone screens, it was quite adequate for text and basic images during its time.

Network and Connectivity

Samsung T429 operates on GSM technology, covering 2G bands of GSM 850 / 1800 / 1900. The device supports GPRS (Class 10) but does not offer EDGE connectivity, which limits its internet speed. It comes with Bluetooth 2.0 for connectivity, allowing users to transfer files and connect to other Bluetooth-enabled devices. Although it lacks WLAN and Positioning, it has a proprietary USB port for charging and data transfer.

Camera Capabilities

The Samsung T429 features a VGA camera with autofocus. Although minimal by modern standards, this camera was typical of phones during its time, allowing for basic photography. However, it does not support video recording. There are no features for a selfie camera, as self-portrait photography was not prevalent then.

Memory and Storage

With an internal storage capacity of just 3MB, the Samsung T429 is extremely limited in terms of data storage, typical for feature phones of its time. It lacks a card slot for expandable memory, restricting users to storing essential data and a limited number of contacts (500 phonebook entries) and call records (20 dialed, 20 received, 20 missed calls).

Battery Life

Powering the Samsung T429 is a removable Li-Ion 800 mAh battery. This battery provides a standby time of up to 330 hours and a talk time of up to 6 hours, making it quite efficient in terms of energy consumption. The option for a removable battery also gives users the flexibility to carry additional batteries for prolonged usage without access to a power source.

Audio and Multimedia Features

The device is equipped with a loudspeaker and supports alert types such as vibration alongside downloadable polyphonic and MP3 ringtones. However, it lacks a 3.5mm headphone jack, which was a significant limitation for users who wished to use personal headphones.

Software and Features

Running on a feature phone operating system, the Samsung T429 supports messaging through SMS, EMS, and MMS. It has a basic web browser (WAP 2.0/xHTML), allowing for limited web browsing capabilities. Java support (MIDP 2.0) enables the phone to run basic Java applications and games which were downloadable.

Price and Availability

Upon release, the Samsung T429 was priced at approximately 60 EUR, making it an affordable option for users seeking a basic and reliable mobile phone. Despite being discontinued, it remains a notable device for those interested in mobile phone history or seeking a backup phone with fundamental communication functionalities.

Conclusion

The Samsung T429 is a reflection of mobile technology from the mid-2000s, offering basic functionalities at an affordable price. With its simplistic design, adequate battery life, and essential communication features, it served the needs of users before the advent of smartphones. While it lacks many of the features we now take for granted, it was a suitable device for its time, serving its purpose for voice calls, text messaging, and occasional multimedia use.