Sharp GX1 Comprehensive Review of Specs Pricing Pros & Cons

Design and Build

The Sharp GX1, introduced in the early 2000s, embodies the mobile phone design of its era, encapsulating a classic appearance with a robust build. The dimensions of the device are 133 x 46 x 23 mm, and it weighs 110 grams. These measurements indicate a phone that was compact yet slightly bulkier than today's ultra-slim smartphones. The use of a plastic body meant it was relatively lightweight and could withstand the usual bumps and drops of daily use.

Display

The device featured a GFC display capable of showing 65K colors, typical for feature phones of that time. The screen resolution was 120 x 160 pixels, in a 4:3 ratio, offering a clear and reasonably bright display for the user interface and games. Although the screen size is unspecified, it was standard for its period, providing sufficient space for engaging visuals given the technology of the time.

Camera

Equipped with a single CIF camera, the GX1's camera quality was quite elementary by today’s standards. The 0.1 MP resolution was suitable for capturing basic photos, but it lacked video functionality. The absence of a front-facing camera limited the device to basic photography rather than today’s emphasis on selfies and video calls.

Battery Performance

The device ran on a removable Li-Ion 720 mAh battery, providing a stand-by time of up to 250 hours and a talk time of up to 3 hours and 30 minutes. Given the phone’s limited features compared to modern smartphones, this battery capacity was adequate, often lasting days on a single charge with moderate use.

Memory and Storage

Internally, the Sharp GX1 did not support expandable storage through a card slot, which was a common limitation in feature phones. The phonebook capacity was limited to 200 contacts, which could include multiple fields and groups, with an option for Photo call. Call logs were equally basic, recording the last 10 dialed, received, and missed calls.

Network and Connectivity

The Sharp GX1 supported GSM technology, operational on 900 and 1800 MHz bands, which facilitated widespread connectivity across various regions. GPRS class 10 was available for basic internet browsing, but features such as EDGE or higher connection speeds were absent. Connectivity options were limited, with no Bluetooth or WLAN capabilities; however, it did feature an infrared port, a popular method for data exchange at the time.

Software and Features

Operated as a feature phone, the GX1 supported basic messaging including SMS and MMS, and it had a WAP 1.2.1 browser for elementary internet activities. Despite its limited capabilities, it included useful utilities like alarms, a clock, and three built-in games: PK Game, Collection Hunter, and Ice Hockey. Java support was another notable feature, allowing certain applications and games to be installed, increasing the phone's utility.

Sound and Alerts

The phone did not include a loudspeaker or a standard 3.5mm headphone jack, which meant users were restricted to using the device's polyphonic ringtones and alerts. With 16 polyphonic tones and a composer feature, users could customize their experience to some extent despite the limited audio options.

Launch and Availability

The Sharp GX1 was announced in October 2002 and was available for a limited time before being discontinued as technology quickly evolved towards more advanced devices. At the time, it served as a reliable choice for users seeking a straightforward mobile communication device.

Conclusion

The Sharp GX1 represents a pivotal moment in mobile technology, showcasing the leap from basic mobile phones to more sophisticated devices with color screens and simplistic cameras. While it may seem primitive today, at the time of its release, the GX1 was a testament to the ongoing technological advancements and provided foundational features that paved the way for future innovations. Though discontinued, the GX1 remains a part of the fascinating evolution of mobile phones, cherished by those who experienced its utility and charm in its prime.