Sharp 703 Unveiling Features Pricing and Performance

Introduction to Sharp 703

The Sharp 703, launched in July 2005, is a feature phone that encapsulates the essence of early 2000s mobile technology. With its compact design, basic functionalities, and simple features, it caters to users who prioritize straightforward communication over complex smartphone capabilities. This article provides an in-depth analysis of the Sharp 703, covering its technical specifications, design, and functionality.

Design and Build

The Sharp 703 features a classic candy bar design, which was a hallmark of the era. Its dimensions are 99 x 47 x 23 mm, making it compact and easily portable in any pocket or handbag. Weighing only 107 grams, it ensures ease of use, avoiding strain during prolonged conversations.

The phone is encased in a sleek black finish with a mini-SIM slot. The absence of a touchscreen, typical of the period's phones, is offset by a physical keypad for reliable input. The build quality suggests durability, amid its lightweight design.

Display

The Sharp 703’s display, although modest by modern standards, was competitive during its release. It incorporates a 2.0-inch TFT screen with 256K colors. With a resolution of 240 x 320 pixels, it delivers a clear and vibrant experience suitable for basic phone functions like texting and navigation.

The screen-to-body ratio sits at approximately 26.6%, a common trait of the era where keypads required significant space. The display is perfect for users who require standard visibility without the extensive distractions of a smartphone.

Network and Connectivity

The device supports GSM/UMTS technology, featuring 2G bands (GSM 900/1800/1900) and 3G bands (UMTS 2100), providing widespread network coverage. Additionally, with a speed of up to 384 kbps, it supports basic internet browsing and communication applications typical of the period.

Wireless communication capabilities are further supported by Bluetooth version 1.1 and an infrared port. However, it lacks WLAN, positioning, and radio functionalities. Connectivity is expanded through proprietary USB support, facilitating data transfer in basic formats.

Camera Capabilities

The Sharp 703 includes a single main camera with a 1.3 MP resolution. While modest, it was sufficient for capturing simple images and video at 320p resolution, adequate for a feature phone at the time. The absence of a selfie camera aligns with trends of devices during the early 2000s, where front-facing cameras were uncommon.

Memory and Storage

Internally, the device is equipped with 8MB of storage, typical for feature phones. A miniSD card slot provides expandable storage, allowing users to store more messages, contacts, and multimedia than the internal memory alone would allow.

The phone’s memory features include a phonebook with photo call capabilities and the ability to log 10 dialed, 10 received, and 10 missed calls, reflecting modest but practical data management.

Battery Life

The Sharp 703 comes with a removable Li-Ion 700mAh battery, offering users the flexibility to replace the battery when necessary, extending the practical life of the phone. It promises a standby time of up to 290 hours and offers talk time of up to 4 hours, ensuring reliable daily functionality.

User Interface and Operating System

The device runs on a proprietary feature phone operating system typical of its time. It provides seamless support for SMS, MMS, and Email messaging, along with a WAP 2.0/xHTML browser, allowing for basic internet usage.

Pre-installed games and downloadable options enhance user engagement. Support for Java (MIDP 2.0) enables the installation of basic applications, widening the phone’s utility and customization potential.

Sound and Audio Features

Sound features are basic, yet functional. It does not include a loudspeaker, but offers vibration and polyphonic ringtones, providing satisfactory alert options. Lack of a 3.5mm jack signals reliance on proprietary solutions for audio connectivity, matching early mobile device design norms.

Conclusion

In summary, the Sharp 703 served its audience well by fulfilling the essential requirements of a mobile phone during its release period. Its straightforward design, adequate battery life, and essential functionalities provide a window into the past era of mobile communication. Although discontinued, its role in the evolution of mobile phones is undeniable, laying groundwork for the comprehensive devices we experience today.