Samsung U450 Intensity Comprehensive Review and Pricing Analysis

Design and Build

The Samsung U450 Intensity is a feature phone that prioritizes communication and ease of use over high-end specifications. Released in September 2009, its design reflects the mobile phone trends of the late 2000s. The phone measures 108 x 53 x 17 mm, making it compact enough to fit comfortably in hand or pocket. Weighing just 100 grams, the Intensity is lightweight yet sturdy.

The device features a QWERTY keyboard, which slides out to offer a comfortable typing experience—a rare feature in today's smartphone era but highly appreciated at the time of release for messaging. The materials used in its construction are primarily plastic, offering durability without drastically increasing weight or cost. Available in Black and Red, the phone appeals to those who prefer simple and bold designs.

Display

The Samsung Intensity is equipped with a 2.1-inch TFT resistive touchscreen displaying 256K colors. Its screen resolution stands at 176 x 220 pixels with an approximate 134 ppi density, which was quite standard for feature phones released during this period. The screen size and resolution reflect its primary function for communication rather than multimedia usage. The screen-to-body ratio is approximately 24.2%, which is compact and focuses on usability and keyboard functionality.

Performance and Software

Being a feature phone, the Intensity runs on a basic operating system designed to handle essential tasks such as calling, messaging, and basic web browsing through its WAP 2.0/xHTML browser. Its internal storage is limited to 128MB, however, it supports microSDHC cards, providing users the flexibility to expand storage for photos and additional apps.

The device offers a smooth performance for fundamental tasks expected from a feature phone but it lacks advanced multitasking seen in contemporary smartphones. The RAM size is not specified, but considering its target usage, it supports the basic functionalities effectively.

Camera

The Samsung U450 is equipped with a 1.3 MP main camera. During its time, this was considered adequate for users who needed a basic camera for capturing everyday moments. However, it does not support video recording or have a selfie camera, emphasizing its design focus on communication rather than media creation. This simplicity appeals to users looking for straightforward photography capabilities without multimedia complexities.

Battery Life

The device is powered by a removable Li-Ion 960 mAh battery, which supports up to 300 hours of standby time and approximately 5 hours of talk time. Users had the option to switch to an extended battery, also Li-Ion, with a capacity of 1500 mAh, providing up to 500 hours of standby and 7 hours of talk time. This flexibility in battery options was particularly beneficial for users needing longer usage times during travel or extended use periods.

Connectivity

The Samsung Intensity supports CDMA technology with 2G bands, specifically CDMA 800 / 1900. Additionally, it features Bluetooth 2.1 with A2DP for wireless connection with peripherals. The absence of WLAN, EDGE, and GPRS capabilities reflects the phone’s focus on basic communication rather than internet connectivity or high data transfer rates, aligning with its role as a straightforward device for calls and messages.

Furthermore, the phone does not support GPS, radio, or a 3.5mm jack, indicating its primary design as an entry-level device. It does, however, incorporate a microUSB 2.0 port for charging and data transfer.

Multimedia Features

Though the Samsung Intensity is primarily a communication device, it does not entirely skip on multimedia features. It supports Java, enabling the installation of Java-based games and applications, which were quite popular at the time. The phone can handle SMS, MMS, Email, and IM, catering to various communication needs of the users.

The absence of advanced multimedia features places the Intensity firmly in the category of practical and functional devices for basic connectivity rather than immersive media experiences.

Market Position and Legacy

The Samsung U450 Intensity cemented its place in the market as a reliable, text-centric feature phone. Priced at approximately 60 EUR upon release, it offered substantial value to customers looking for basic communication tools with the added convenience of a full QWERTY keyboard.

Its release during the late 2000s placed it amidst an era of significant transformation in the mobile industry—from basic feature phones to early smartphones. Despite being discontinued, the Intensity remains a memorable device for users nostalgic for physical keyboards and straightforward communication capabilities.

Overall, the Samsung U450 Intensity reflects an age where mobile phones were primarily used for their foundational purpose—communication. It reminds one of a time when simplicity in design and function was paramount, a sentiment that remains appreciated, particularly in certain markets and among specific user demographics seeking a functional and reliable mobile experience without the frills of modern smartphones.