Price and specifications of Samsung W9705 advantages, disadvantages, and a comprehensive explanation

Introduction to Samsung W9705

The Samsung W9705 is a feature phone announced in March 2010 and released in July of the same year. It marked an era where compact and simple mobile phones were still widely preferred by users who sought basic functionalities combined with reliable hardware. Despite being discontinued, the Samsung W9705 remains a memorable device with its distinct features. This article delves into the detailed specifications and features of the Samsung W9705, shedding light on its technology, design, and overall user experience.

Network and Connectivity

Samsung W9705 supports GSM and HSPA technologies, offering a range of 2G bands including GSM 850, 900, 1800, and 1900. It also supports 3G bands with HSDPA and allows data speed capabilities of up to 3.6/0.384 Mbps. The phone supports GPRS Class 10 and EDGE Class 10, making it efficient for basic data connectivity needs during its time.

Launch and Availability

Announced in March 2010, the Samsung W9705 was released in July of the same year. Although it has been discontinued, it provided a viable option for users during its period of availability, presenting itself as a capable device for communication and basic multimedia functionality.

Body and Design

The Samsung W9705 features a compact design with dimensions measuring 100.5 x 52 x 22.9 mm and weighing approximately 135 grams. The phone accepts a Mini-SIM, which was typical of feature phones in that era. The design is robust and straightforward, appealing to users looking for a device that is easy to handle and portable.

Display

The handset is equipped with a 2.4-inch TFT display capable of showing 256K colors. The screen resolution is set at 240 x 320 pixels, resulting in a pixel density of roughly 167 ppi. While the screen-to-body ratio is approximately 34.1%, it was adequate for browsing simple interfaces, viewing images taken with the camera, and reading messages.

Memory and Storage

Internally, the Samsung W9705 is equipped with 83MB of storage, allowing for the storage of contacts and call records. The phonebook supports up to 3000 entries and includes a photocall feature. Users can expand the storage using a microSDHC card via a dedicated slot, providing additional space for user's data needs like storing more multimedia content.

Camera Capabilities

The phone features a single 2 MP main camera capable of taking basic photos and recording video. Although it lacks a selfie camera, the available camera was competent enough for users whose primary concern was occasional photo capturing and simplicity in what was then a nascent era of mobile photography.

Sound and Audio

One limitation of the Samsung W9705 is the absence of a loudspeaker and a 3.5mm audio jack, which limits its audio output options. Users had to rely mainly on Bluetooth headsets for audio, given its Bluetooth 2.1 capability with A2DP support.

Communication and Features

The device features WLAN capabilities with Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g for wireless internet connectivity, Bluetooth for short-range data sharing, and GPS and A-GPS support for navigation purposes. Unfortunately, the device does not include FM Radio capabilities or Java support. Additionally, it features a compass sensor and supports messaging via SMS, MMS, and Email. The browser technology is restricted to WAP/xHTML, ideal mainly for very light web browsing.

Battery Life

Samsung W9705 is powered by a removable Li-Ion 1000 mAh battery. The battery supports a standby time of up to 490 hours on 2G and up to 360 hours on 3G, with talk time reaching up to 7 hours 30 minutes on 2G and up to 4 hours 40 minutes on 3G. This ensured ample use time for users who needed a dependable phone for calls and basic data usage.

Miscellaneous Features

The phone came in two color variants - Red on Black and Yellow on Black, giving users a slight customization option. The SAR value for the head stands at 0.72 W/kg, adhering to safety standards. At launch, the Samsung W9705 was priced at approximately 70 EUR, reflecting its market positioning as an affordable feature phone for the masses.

Conclusion

In retrospect, the Samsung W9705 served its purpose well as a feature phone during a time when users valued reliability over multi-functionality in their mobile devices. Its compact design, coupled with basic connectivity and data capabilities, made it a suitable choice for communication and basic multimedia needs. Although technology has vastly evolved since its release, making it obsolete by today's standards, the Samsung W9705 remains a memorable part of Samsung’s feature phone lineup.