Samsung X680 Unveiling Features Pricing & ProsCons

Design and Build Quality

The Samsung X680, announced in the second quarter of 2006, reflects the compact and efficient design trends of its time. With dimensions of 88 x 44 x 19 mm and a weight of just 80 grams, it was designed to be light and portable, attracting users who preferred a straightforward, no-frills device. The use of a mini-SIM card slot is also consistent with the design practices of the mid-2000s. The phone was made available in a selection of colors, including Black, Blue, Silver, and Pink, adding a touch of personalization and style for users.

Display Features

The Samsung X680 features a TFT display capable of rendering 65,000 colors, indicative of the limited color depth technology available at the time. The screen size stands at 1.8 inches with a resolution of 128 x 160 pixels, which translates to an approximate pixel density of 114 ppi. Although modest by today's standards, during its release, this display was adequate for basic tasks such as text messaging and phone calls. The compact display, making up approximately 26.3% of the screen-to-body ratio, was common in the era when the emphasis was more on functionality than large, vibrant displays.

Camera Capabilities

In terms of photographic technology, the Samsung X680 is equipped with a VGA main camera, capturing images at a 0.3 MP resolution. The camera was capable of recording video, although the quality would not meet contemporary expectations. The absence of a selfie camera aligns with the typical design choices of the time, when mobile photography was not yet a primary focus for consumers and manufacturers alike.

Network and Connectivity

The phone supports GSM technology and operates on 2G bands including GSM 900, 1800, and 1900. For internet connectivity, it offers GPRS and EDGE, both of which are classified under class 10. Bluetooth 1.2 is available for basic wireless communications, allowing users to transfer files such as contacts and ringtones. Traditional features like WLAN and GPS are absent, reflecting the limited scope of connectivity options for mobile devices designed in 2006. A proprietary USB port was used for charging and data transfers.

Performance and Operating System

As a feature phone, the Samsung X680 did not operate on an advanced operating system like those found in smartphones of later years. Featuring a minimal user interface, the device was built for essential communication functions—primarily calls and messaging. Java MIDP 2.0 support enabled users to download basic applications and games, enhancing the device's entertainment potential within the limits of its hardware. The phone was also equipped with various forms of messaging support, including SMS, EMS, and MMS.

Memory and Storage

Internal storage of the device was limited to 30MB, a modest amount even for its time. This storage capacity was designed mainly to accommodate contacts, ringtones, and a small number of additional applications or games. The absence of a card slot meant users could not expand storage, which directed consumers to utilize available memory judiciously. The phonebook could store up to 1000 entries and included a photocall feature for associating photos with contacts.

Battery Specifications

The Samsung X680 housed a removable Li-Ion 800 mAh battery. Despite its limited capacity, this battery offered reasonable longevity, providing up to 250 hours of standby time and up to 3 hours of talk time. The focus on basic functionality without power-hungry components like large colorful displays or constant internet connectivity allowed the device to maintain acceptable battery life throughout a typical day’s use.

Sound and Audio Features

A loudspeaker was integrated into the device, supporting vibration and a variety of polyphonic ringtones, including downloadable MP3s, although a 3.5mm audio jack was notably absent. Users looking to play audio files or engage in hands-free calls would need to rely on Bluetooth connectivity or proprietary audio accessories.

Conclusion and Market Reception

Overall, the Samsung X680 was designed as a compact and functional feature phone aimed at users with basic communication needs. It served as a practical choice for consumers not requiring excessive features or applications. While now discontinued, the device remains a testament to the mobile technology standards of the mid-2000s, offering simplicity and reliability. Its release contributed to Samsung’s product diversity and provided consumers with an alternative to more complex and costly mobile devices.