Sharp GX20 Comprehensive Review of Specs Pricing Features & Drawbacks

Overview of the Sharp GX20

The Sharp GX20 is a mobile device that was introduced in the third quarter of 2003. It was known for its innovative features at the time, particularly its camera capabilities and screen technology. Despite the progress in mobile phone technology today, the GX20 remains a notable device for its contributions to early mobile photography and color display in mobile phones.

Network Capabilities

The Sharp GX20 supported GSM technology, which was the leading global standard for mobile communication in the early 2000s. The device operated on the GSM 900, 1800, and 1900 bands, making it versatile for international use as it could connect to networks in Europe, Asia, and the Americas. It also supported GPRS Class 8, providing basic data service capabilities, although it did not support EDGE for faster data speeds.

Design and Build

The handset was compact with dimensions of 95 x 49 x 25 mm and a weight of 102 grams. Its design was practical for everyday use and portability, fitted with a Mini-SIM card slot. The aesthetic and ergonomics of the Sharp GX20 were typical of clamshell devices of that era, focusing on providing a convenient user experience and a robust build.

Display Characteristics

One of the standout features of the GX20 was its CGS display capable of presenting 65,000 colors. This was a significant improvement over many other mobile phones that were still stuck on monochrome or limited-color screens. While the exact size of the display wasn't specified, its resolution was 240 x 320 pixels in a 4:3 aspect ratio, which offered relatively sharp images and vibrant colors for the period.

Memory and Storage

The device came with 2MB of internal storage, which was standard for phones at the time given the relative size of applications and media. There was no option for expandable storage via a card slot. The GX20’s phonebook could store up to 500 entries and there was support for photo call functionality. Additionally, it could record up to 10 dialed, received, and missed calls, which was quite useful for keeping track of communication.

Camera and Multimedia

The Sharp GX20 featured a VGA main camera with LED flash, notable for 2003, as it allowed users to take photos in low-light conditions. The ability to record video also put it ahead of many contemporaries. However, it lacked a front-facing camera, which was common for the period. The sound capabilities included support for downloadable polyphonic ringtones and a composer. However, it did not have a loudspeaker or a 3.5mm audio jack for headphones, which limited its audio functionality.

Connectivity Options

Connectivity features were basic, with no support for WLAN, Bluetooth, or positioning services. The presence of an infrared port offered some form of wireless connectivity, a prevalent feature during that era for sharing contacts and media between devices. The device also lacked a radio and had unspecified USB capabilities.

Software and Applications

As a feature phone, the GX20 ran a proprietary operating system that focused on basic functionality rather than the advanced capabilities of today’s smartphone OSs. Messaging services included SMS, EMS, and MMS, which were popular methods for text and multimedia communication. The device hosted a WAP 2.0/xHTML browser for basic web browsing and supported Java applications, which allowed users to download additional games and utilities.

Battery Performance

The phone was powered by a removable Li-Ion 720 mAh battery. In terms of battery life, it offered up to 250 hours of standby time and 3.5 hours of talk time, which was typical of the phones in its class. The removable aspect of the battery also meant that users could easily replace it, extending the device's usability over time without requiring service from a technician.

Conclusion

The Sharp GX20 was a trailblazer in its time, integrating a variety of features that appealed to a wide user base. From its vivid color screen to its innovative camera functions, the GX20 was positioned as a forward-thinking device in the early 2000s mobile market. While it is discontinued and obsolete by today's standards, its influence continues to be felt in the generations of mobile technology that followed.