Samsung Z140 Full Specs Prices Pros & Cons Revealed

Overview of Samsung Z140

The Samsung Z140 was launched in the first quarter of 2005 and served as a feature-rich option in the feature phone segment of its time. It straddled the line between the basic features of earlier models and some advanced specifications that were emerging in mobile phones back then. Although the device is now discontinued, it remains a point of interest for technology enthusiasts and collectors interested in the evolution of mobile phones.

Design and Build

The Samsung Z140 was compact and relatively lightweight, measuring 88 x 48 x 26 mm and weighing just 105 grams. This made it convenient to carry around, fitting easily into pockets or small bags. Its build was solid for the time, with a clamshell design that protected the screen when not in use. This form factor was quite popular during the era, providing a level of screen protection while also allowing for a smaller phone size.

Display

The phone featured a TFT display capable of producing 256K colors, which was considered quite advanced for a feature phone. The screen resolution of 176 x 220 pixels ensured that images and menus appeared vivid and clear. Despite its small size, the display was sufficient for the functionality offered by the phone at the time, including basic multimedia and internet browsing capabilities.

Camera

The Samsung Z140 was equipped with a single VGA camera, which had a resolution of 0.3 megapixels. While basic by today's standards, this camera allowed users to capture photos and videos, a feature that was still gaining traction in mobile devices. Although the image quality was limited, it provided a convenient way for users to snap quick photos when needed.

Battery Life

The phone was powered by a removable Li-Ion 1000 mAh battery. This offered a standby time of up to 300 hours and a talk time of up to 4 hours. These figures were typical for feature phones of that era, as the devices were not as power-hungry as modern smartphones. The ability to remove the battery was also a benefit, allowing users to carry a spare if needed.

Network and Connectivity

The Samsung Z140 supported both GSM and UMTS technologies, covering 2G bands such as GSM 900, 1800, and 1900, and a 3G band of UMTS 2100. This marked it as a capable device for making calls and utilizing the nascent mobile internet services of the time. With a 384 kbps speed support, browsing was possible, though the limited browsing capabilities matched the time's technological constraints.

In terms of connectivity, the device included Bluetooth 1.1 and infrared, but it lacked a WLAN or positioning technology like GPS. The phone also used a proprietary USB connection, which was common before the widespread adoption of more universal charging and data cables.

Memory and Storage

The Samsung Z140 offered 44MB of internal storage, which was standard for phones of its class at that time. Unfortunately, it did not have a card slot to expand this memory, meaning users were limited in terms of media and data storage capacity. The phonebook could store up to 1000 entries complete with photocall capabilities, catering to the needs of most users. Call records could save up to 20 dialed, 20 received, and 20 missed calls.

Software Features

The device was classified as a feature phone, with its operating system designed to offer straightforward, easy-to-use functionalities. Users could manage messaging via SMS, MMS, and EMail, exploiting the compact screen effectively. The phone supported a WAP 2.0/xHTML browser, offering basic internet services. It also included Java support with MIDP 2.0, enabling users to install Java-based applications and games.

Audio and Multimedia

Audio capabilities included downloadable polyphonic and MP3 ringtones, providing personalized alerts. However, the phone did not support a loudspeaker, which was a limitation for hands-free calling. It also lacked a 3.5mm audio jack, which was less common during the period, as many devices used proprietary connectors for audio accessories.

Conclusion

In summary, the Samsung Z140 was a capable and compact feature phone that delivered the essentials with a touch of emerging mobile technology. Its design, connectivity options, and modest multimedia capabilities offered a convenient device for communication in the mid-2000s. Though now a piece of discontinued technology, it played a part in the history of mobile telephony, bridging traditional mobile use with internet and multimedia functionalities that would soon become standard.