Overview of Sewon SGD-106

The Sewon SGD-106 is a feature phone that first appeared on the market in the first quarter of 2004. Although it is now discontinued, the device remains an interesting piece of technological history from a time when mobile communication was rapidly evolving. In this comprehensive analysis, we will explore the unique characteristics and specifications that defined the Sewon SGD-106, providing a detailed overview of its hardware, software, and overall performance.

Network and Connectivity

The Sewon SGD-106 was tailored for basic cellular connectivity that suited the needs of its time. Operating primarily on the GSM 900/1800 bands, the device did not support GPRS or EDGE technologies, which limited its data capabilities. During its era, the focus was more on voice communication and basic texting, ensuring minimalistic but reliable connectivity. It used a mini-SIM card which was standard for devices of that period.

Design and Build

With dimensions measuring 72 x 40 x 23 mm, the Sewon SGD-106 was compact and easily portable. Its weight stood at a mere 80 grams, making it a lightweight option compared to many modern devices. The absence of extravagant features in its body design was characteristic of its time, focusing instead on practical and straightforward aesthetics. The small form factor facilitated ease of use, highlighting function over form.

Display

The device featured a CSTN display capable of showing 256 colors, which was typical for the feature phones of its era. The resolution of 128 x 128 pixels ensured that the essential functions like calling and texting were manageable, although the color depth was limited to basic visual elements. The square aspect ratio fitted the minimalist design and functionality paradigm pursued by most manufacturers at that time.

Memory and Storage

Memory capabilities on the Sewon SGD-106 were modest, consistent with other feature phones of its generation. Lacking a card slot, the device did not support expandable memory. Internally, it could store up to 100 phonebook entries, as well as 10 dialed, 10 received, and 10 missed call records, catering to the straightforward digital communication needs of its users.

Battery Performance

Battery life was a hallmark of early mobile phones. The Sewon SGD-106 was equipped with a removable Li-Ion 550 mAh battery. In terms of performance, the battery allowed for a standby time of up to 110 hours and a talk time of up to 3 hours. Although these figures might seem limited by today’s standards, they were quite adequate for the lightweight usage typically expected from feature phones.

Sound and Alerts

Sound capabilities on the Sewon SGD-106 were basic. The phone did not include a loudspeaker or a 3.5mm headphone jack. It relied on vibration and 16 polyphonic ringtones for alerting users to calls and messages, which was common for phones from this period.

Communication and Additional Features

In terms of communication options, the Sewon SGD-106 focused solely on SMS messaging. It did not support features like Bluetooth or wireless connectivity, reflecting the technology available at the time. No positioning services like GPS or radio were included, aligning the device with its essentialist design. The phone did, however, support English and Chinese languages, making it accessible to a broad range of users.

Conclusion

The Sewon SGD-106 serves as a reflection of early 2000s mobile phone technology and consumer needs. Its simple design, focused on essential functions like calling and SMS texting, demonstrates the early days of mobile communication before the advent of smartphones. While today's mobile market is driven by multifunctional, internet-connected devices, the Sewon SGD-106 reminds us of a time when reliability and simplicity were at the forefront of communication technology.