Price and specifications of Sharp FX advantages, disadvantages, and a comprehensive explanation

Overview of Sharp FX

The Sharp FX is a mobile phone released in July 2010, known for its distinctive design and feature set targeting users who prioritize text communication. Although it belongs to the era of feature phones, it stands out due to its QWERTY keyboard and touch screen—a combination that was not common at its time of release. This article delves into the various aspects of the Sharp FX, exploring its specifications, unique features, and the user experience it offered.

Design and Build

The Sharp FX sports dimensions of 114.3 x 55.9 x 15.2 mm, making it compact yet slightly bulky. Weighing 141.8 grams, the phone felt solid in hand. Its design highlight is the slide-out QWERTY keyboard, making it an attractive option for heavy texters. The phone supports Mini-SIM technology, a standard during its release period.

Display

The Sharp FX comes with a 3.0-inch TFT screen, capable of displaying 256K colors. The resolution of 400x240 pixels delivers a pixel density of approximately 155 ppi. Although modest by today's standards, this was decent for the time, providing clear visibility for texts and images.

Camera Functionality

Equipped with a 2MP rear camera, the Sharp FX allows users to capture photos and videos. While it lacks advanced features like autofocus or flash, the camera was suitable for casual snapshots and sharing via MMS or social networks, aligning with the device's focus on communication.

Storage and Memory

Internally, the Sharp FX offers 80MB of storage, sufficient for storing essential data and applications. For additional storage, the device includes a microSDHC slot, expanding storage capabilities significantly. The phonebook can hold up to 1000 entries with an option for photo call, a useful feature for organizing contacts.

Network and Connectivity

Supporting GSM and HSPA networks, the Sharp FX ensures reliable voice and data communication. It accommodates 2G and 3G bands, making it versatile for different network environments, though its maximum speed is limited to HSPA 3.6/0.384 Mbps. Connectivity options include Bluetooth 2.1 for local data transfer and an infrared port, a feature gradually phased out in later mobile phones. Additionally, it includes stereo FM radio and USB 2.0 connection capabilities.

Audio and Multimedia

The device features a loudspeaker but lacks a 3.5mm jack, which could be a limitation for users wanting to connect wired headphones. However, the Bluetooth capability compensates for this by allowing wireless audio accessories. Additionally, it supports Java MIDP 2.0, enabling users to download and play games, alongside pre-installed options.

Battery Performance

The Sharp FX is powered by a removable Li-Ion 1240 mAh battery, offering a stand-by time of up to 240 hours and a talk time of about 3 hours. This was standard for feature phones of its time, emphasizing the longevity required for extended communication without frequent recharging.

Operating System and User Experience

Running on a proprietary feature phone OS, the Sharp FX focuses on basic functionalities such as SMS, MMS, Email, and Instant Messaging. The browser supports WAP 2.0/xHTML and basic HTML, sufficient for light web browsing. The inclusion of a touch screen complements the physical keyboard, providing users with multiple input methods. Despite its basic nature, the interface is straightforward, focusing on usability and efficiency.

Conclusion

Although discontinued, the Sharp FX remains a memorable device for those who experienced its blend of tactile and touch inputs. It encapsulates a unique era in mobile phone history, where feature phones were transitioning towards more complex functionalities. Its design and capabilities reflect the mid-transition between basic cell phones and early smartphones, serving well those who valued communication above all else. Priced initially around 210 EUR, it offered reasonable value for its target demographic, delivering a balance of features tailored particularly towards text-based communication enthusiasts.