Price and specifications of Sony Ericsson T310 advantages, disadvantages, and a comprehensive explanation

Overview of Sony Ericsson T310

The Sony Ericsson T310, released in 2003, was a significant device during its time, representing a blend of style and functionality. As a feature phone, it targeted users seeking basic mobile communication combined with a few multimedia features. While it may not compare to the advanced smartphones of today, the T310 stood out for its design elements and user-friendly features during its era.

Design and Build

The T310 sported a classic candy-bar design, which was prevalent in early 2000s mobile phones. Its dimensions of 104 x 49 x 19 mm made it compact and easy to hold. Weighing just 97 grams, the phone was light, ensuring it was portable enough to slide into any pocket. The device's build quality was robust for its time, reflecting Sony Ericsson's commitment to durability.

Display

The phone featured a STN display capable of showing 256 colors. While this seems limited by today’s standards, it was an adequate feature for simple tasks like navigating menus and viewing basic graphics. The display resolution was 101 x 80 pixels, sufficient for viewing six lines of text at a time.

Network and Connectivity

Equipped with GSM technology, the T310 supported 2G bands on GSM 900/1800/1900 frequencies. Though it lacked advanced connectivity options like Bluetooth or USB, it did include an infrared port, which facilitated basic file sharing and connecting with compatible devices. There was no support for WLAN or radio, limiting modern connectivity features.

Memory and Storage

In terms of storage, users were limited to the phone's internal capabilities, as there was no card slot for expandable memory. The phonebook could store up to 250 contacts, each capable of holding up to 8 fields, a valuable feature for users needing to save detailed contact information. Additionally, the device could log 30 received, dialed, and missed calls, allowing users to track their call history efficiently.

Sound and Alert Features

Sound alerts in the T310 included vibration and downloadable polyphonic ringtones, which were quite popular at the time. Users could even compose their ringtones, adding a degree of personalization that was rare during its launch period. However, the phone lacked a loudspeaker and a 3.5mm jack, restricting its audio output options.

Battery Life

The device was powered by a removable Li-Po battery, offering a standby time of up to 300 hours and a talk time of up to 7 hours. For a phone of its era, this battery life was considered robust and sufficient for most typical usage patterns. The removable nature of the battery meant users could easily replace it when necessary, enhancing the device's long-term usability.

Messaging and Browser Capabilities

The T310 supported SMS, EMS, MMS, and Email messaging formats, enabling users to communicate in various forms. This was a significant feature during the time, especially as multimedia messaging was gaining popularity. The built-in WAP 2.0/xHTML browser allowed basic internet functionality, though browsing experiences were limited by today's standards due to slower connection speeds and a basic display.

Games and Entertainment

Preloaded with games like Tony Hawk's Pro Skater, the T310 provided users with some entertainment options. Additional downloadable games were available, with the phone featuring a basic gaming experience suitable for short time-killing sessions.

Colors, SAR, and Miscellaneous Features

Available in three colors—Flaming Gold, Fashion Blue, and Funky Purple—the T310 catered to users’ preference for personalized aesthetics. Its SAR value was 0.35 W/kg (head) and 0.38 W/kg (body), maintaining compliance with safety standards. Moreover, it had a SAR EU of 0.61 W/kg (head).

Conclusion

While technological advances have since overshadowed the Sony Ericsson T310, it remains a memorable part of early mobile communication history. Its design, coupled with essential connectivity and multimedia features, provided users with a reliable and user-friendly experience. As a reflection of the early 2000s, the T310 holds its charm as a simple yet effective device that served the basic needs of its user base.