Price and specifications of Samsung X210 advantages, disadvantages, and a comprehensive explanation

Introduction to Samsung X210

The Samsung X210 was a mobile phone released in May 2006, designed to address the basic communication needs of consumers at that time. Although it was eventually discontinued, this phone was quite popular due to its simple functionality, reliability, and affordability. In this comprehensive analysis, we will explore the specifications, features, and overall performance of the Samsung X210, providing a detailed insight into what made this device stand out during its release period.

Network and Connectivity

The Samsung X210 operated on GSM technology, supporting 2G bands including GSM 900, 1800, and 1900. It featured GPRS Class 10 for basic data services while lacking EDGE support. Furthermore, modern connectivity options such as WLAN and Bluetooth were notably absent in this device. However, users could still rely on its infrared port for local data transfers, which was a convenient feature at the time. Additionally, the inclusion of an FM radio allowed users to enjoy radio broadcasts on-the-go.

Launch and Availability

Announced in May 2006, the Samsung X210 entered the market as a feature phone during an era where mobile phones were undergoing rapid technological advancements. Despite its eventual discontinuation, the phone enjoyed decent market traction for several years, largely due to its practicality and cost-effectiveness.

Body and Design

The Samsung X210 had a compact and lightweight design, with dimensions measuring 86.2 x 43.9 x 19.7 mm and a weight of just 76 grams. This made it highly portable and easy to carry around. The phone supported a Mini-SIM, a standard in many devices of that era. Its ergonomic design was well-received by users, offering a comfortable grip and easy button accessibility.

Display

The phone featured a TFT display capable of showing up to 65K colors, which was adequate for displaying simple graphics and text messages. The screen resolution was 128 x 160 pixels, capable of accommodating 8 lines of text. This limited display size, however, meant that the phone was primarily designed for basic usage, such as calling and messaging, rather than multimedia consumption.

Memory and Storage

In terms of memory, the Samsung X210 offered 1.8MB of internal storage. This was mainly utilized for storing contacts, messages, and basic applications. The device could hold up to 1000 phonebook entries, along with records of 20 dialed, 20 received, and 20 missed calls. Unfortunately, the lack of a card slot meant that users could not expand storage beyond the internal memory, limiting the phone's capacity for additional data.

Camera

The Samsung X210 did not come equipped with a camera. This was typical for many feature phones of the time, as the emphasis was primarily on voice calling and text messaging rather than photography or other multimedia features.

Sound and Alerts

Despite its simplicity, the Samsung X210 offered a loudspeaker, which was a valuable addition for listening to calls or music hands-free. The device supported vibration alerts and downloadable polyphonic ringtones, allowing users some level of customization in the way they were notified of incoming communications. However, there was no 3.5mm audio jack available, which limited the use of earphones.

Communication and Messaging

The phone supported basic messaging capabilities including SMS, EMS, and MMS. It also featured a WAP 1.2 browser, allowing users to access a very basic version of the internet. While it did not support advanced browsing features or high-speed internet, it was sufficient for accessing simple web pages and online services at the time. The absence of built-in games was offset by the inclusion of Java support, which allowed users to download and install Java-based applications and games.

Battery Life

The Samsung X210 was powered by a removable Li-Ion battery with a capacity of 830mAh. This was ample for a feature phone, providing users with reliable power for several days on a single charge, especially given the phone’s minimal energy consumption. The removable nature of the battery also meant users could carry a spare battery for situations where charging was not immediately available.

Miscellaneous Features

Available in a classic black color, the Samsung X210 had a SAR (Specific Absorption Rate) of 0.47 W/kg, a relevant safety specification indicating the amount of radiofrequency energy absorbed by the user when the phone was in use. This low SAR value was seen as a positive aspect, reflecting Samsung’s commitment to consumer safety.

Conclusion

The Samsung X210 was a quintessential feature phone that encapsulated the technological capabilities and limitations of mid-2000s mobile devices. Its simple design and functional features were well-suited for users seeking reliable, straightforward communication tools without the complexity and distractions of more advanced smartphones. Despite its discontinuation, the Samsung X210 remains a nostalgic reminder of a time when mobile devices were primarily used for voice calls and messaging, providing a glimpse into the evolutionary journey of mobile technology.