Siemens S25 The Definitive Guide to Features Pricing & Performance

Introduction to Siemens S25

The Siemens S25 was a groundbreaking mobile phone when it was launched in 1999. It represented an advanced level of mobile communication technology at the time, bridging the gap between basic cell phones and more feature-rich devices. As a product from Siemens, a company known for its innovative technology and engineering acumen, the S25 was designed to cater to users who needed more than just basic calling and texting features.

Network and Connectivity

The Siemens S25 operated on the GSM technology, specifically supporting GSM 900 and 1800 bands. Unlike modern mobile phones, the S25 did not support GPRS or EDGE, which means it wasn't equipped for internet usage or data calls. The phone's purpose was mainly focused on providing reliable voice communication and SMS services.

Design and Build

With dimensions of 117 x 47 x 23 mm and a weight of 125 grams, the Siemens S25 was portable yet robust. The phone carried a compact design with a Mini-SIM slot, which was standard during the late 1990s. The body of the phone was considered stylish for its time, with several color options including Mid-Silver Grey, Blue Metallic, Dark Grey, and Green Metallic, catering to various consumer preferences.

Display

The device featured a color graphic display, a major highlight during its release. The resolution was 97 x 54 pixels, capable of displaying six lines of text and providing a 16:9 aspect ratio. Although this may seem modest compared to today’s standards, it was revolutionary in providing enhanced clarity and user interface aesthetics back then.

Battery Life

The Siemens S25 housed a removable Li-Ion battery with a capacity of 650 mAh. It offered a standby time ranging from 60 to 200 hours and a talk time of up to 300 minutes. This longevity was quite impressive for users who required a reliable device for everyday communication.

Memory and Storage

The phone had limited storage capabilities by today’s standards. It did not support additional storage via memory cards, and its internal phonebook could store up to 50 contacts. Additionally, it could log 10 dialed, 10 received, and 10 missed calls, which sufficed for keeping track of basic call information.

Sound and Alerts

The Siemens S25 supported monophonic ringtones and included basic alert types like vibration. It did not have a loudspeaker or a 3.5mm audio jack, which highlights its focus on fundamental communication features rather than multimedia enhancements.

Communication Features

The phone offered basic communication features, including SMS messaging. There was no WLAN, Bluetooth, or advanced positioning systems such as GPS, which limited the device's connective capabilities compared to modern smartphones. However, it did feature an infrared port for limited wireless data transfer between compatible devices, showcasing early steps towards wireless communication.

Additional Features

The Siemens S25 came with a few built-in features like a clock and alarm. It also included three simple games and supported 20 different languages, enabling wide usability across various regions. However, it did not support Java applications, reflecting the limitations in extendable app functionality at the time.

Conclusion

Despite its limitations by today’s technological standards, the Siemens S25 was a versatile device during its time. It captured the essence of mobile communication needs of the late 90s, offering durability, essential features, and a hint of innovation with its color display. While technology has rapidly evolved since the S25's release, it remains a landmark in the history of mobile phones, marking a significant transition from simple communication tools to more complex devices.