Unveiling the Sony Ericsson W200 Specs Features and Value Analysis

Overview of Sony Ericsson W200

The Sony Ericsson W200, introduced in January 2007, emerged as a popular choice among users seeking a compact and budget-friendly mobile phone with music capabilities. As a member of the Walkman series, the W200 was designed with music enthusiasts in mind, promising a rich multimedia experience within a slim and lightweight package. Packing several features typical of feature phones at that time, it captivated users with its simplicity and utility.

Design and Build

One of the standout elements of the W200 was its design. Measuring 101 x 44 x 18 mm and weighing only 85 grams, the phone was highly portable and could easily slip into any pocket or purse. The ergonomic design meant it felt comfortable during use, and its Mini-SIM functionality added to its practicality. The phone was available in a variety of colors including Rhythm Black, Pulse White, Grey, Sweet Pink, Aquatic White, and Mono Blue, appealing to a broad audience with different style preferences.

Display

The display was a compact 1.8-inch UBC screen capable of showing 65K colors, with a resolution of 128 x 160 pixels. Although it did not offer high pixel density, the display was adequate for basic phone functions. The screen's 22.9% screen-to-body ratio was typical of phones during that period and functional for accessing menus, text messaging, and browsing features.

Network and Connectivity

Connectivity was straightforward, focusing on 2G technology with support for GSM 900/1800/1900 bands. With Class 10 GPRS, users could browse the web at modest speeds. However, the phone did not support EDGE, Bluetooth, or WLAN. Instead, it featured proprietary USB connectivity and an infrared port, which enabled limited data exchange with other devices. The lack of more modern connectivity options was a reflective feature of the era rather than a shortcoming.

Memory and Storage

The internal storage of the W200 was limited to 27MB, which could be expanded using a Memory Stick Micro (M2) card of up to 2GB. The phonebook could store contacts and support photo call features, whereas call records could store details of 30 received, dialed, and missed calls. Although modest by today’s standards, these capabilities met the requirements of most users at the time.

Camera Capabilities

The phone featured a VGA main camera that could capture brief video clips, providing basic photography options. While rudimentary, it allowed users to take snapshots and share moments in a time when camera phones were primarily emerging. The absence of a selfie camera reflects the device's focus on practicality and basic feature inclusion.

Music and Entertainment

The Walkman brand under Sony Ericsson promised a compelling music experience. The W200 did not disappoint; it supported downloadable polyphonic, MP3, and AAC ringtones, alongside a stereo FM radio with RDS. Users could enjoy music on the go, leveraging the available storage to create personalized music libraries. The lack of a 3.5mm audio jack required users to opt for proprietary solutions, which was somewhat common for the time.

Battery Life

Equipped with a removable Li-Ion battery, the W200 offered respectable endurance, with a standby time of up to 300 hours and talk time of up to 7 hours. This longevity made it reliable for everyday use, ensuring users stayed connected throughout the day without frequent charging.

Communication Features

For messaging, the Sony Ericsson W200 supported SMS, MMS, Email, and Instant Messaging, providing users with multiple ways to stay in touch. The presence of a WAP 2.0/xHTML browser along with HTML (NetFront) capabilities allowed for basic web browsing akin to feature phone standards of the period.

Additional Features

Additional features included downloadable games and Java support (MIDP 2.0), which permitted users to enhance their phone with applications and entertainment that went beyond the pre-installed offerings. The inclusion of a vibration alert and the capability to download ringtones further added to the customization capabilities of the gadget.

Conclusion

The Sony Ericsson W200 stands as a testament to the evolution of mobile phones in the mid-2000s. It combined simplicity with essential features, catering primarily to music lovers who desired a portable and affordable device that didn’t compromise on its media capabilities. Although discontinued, its legacy continues as part of the evolution towards modern smartphones, reflecting the technological strides that have since been made.