Discover the Sony Ericsson W800 Specs Prices Pros & Cons

Introduction to the Sony Ericsson W800

The Sony Ericsson W800 is a notable device from the mid-2000s, celebrated for its innovative integration of phone and music player capabilities. Released in the first quarter of 2005, the W800 was a pioneer in the crossover between mobile phones and music-centric portable devices. Although discontinued, its impact on the evolution of mobile phones is undeniable. This article explores the various features and specifications of the Sony Ericsson W800, which contributed to its popularity during its time.

Design and Build

One of the standout features of the Sony Ericsson W800 is its design. With dimensions of 100 x 46 x 20.5 mm and a weight of 99 g, the W800 was considered compact and lightweight for its era. The device utilized a Mini-SIM and was designed with a combination of sleekness and practical usability, complete with a distinct "Smooth White" color. Its form factor made it comfortable to hold and operate, appealing to users who desired both style and functionality.

Display

The W800 featured a TFT display capable of showcasing 256K colors, a significant specification for devices of that time. Measuring 1.8 inches with a resolution of 176 x 220 pixels, the display ensured that users could enjoy clear visuals, whether browsing media or navigating the phone's user interface. This screen-to-body ratio of approximately 22.2% meant that the display was adequately sized for viewing without making the device bulky.

Camera Capabilities

Ahead of its time, the W800 was equipped with a 2 MP autofocus camera complemented by an LED flash. This setup allowed users to capture photos with reasonable quality for personal use and quick sharing. Additionally, the W800 supported video recording, a feature that expanded its functionality beyond still images and contributed to its appeal as a multimedia phone.

Audio and Music Features

The Sony Ericsson W800 is perhaps best known for its music capabilities. The device pioneered the concept of integrating a full-fledged music player into a phone, branding itself as part of the "Walkman" phone series. It came with a stereo FM radio with RDS and supported MP3 playback. The W800 included a proprietary USB connection for transferring music files, although it did not feature a 3.5mm audio jack, which was somewhat of a limitation. However, this was offset by the availability of downloadable MP3 ringtones, adding to the customizability of the user's experience.

Memory and Storage

The W800 came with 34 MB of internal storage, which was relatively limited; however, the inclusion of a Memory Stick Duo Pro slot was a crucial aspect of its design, allowing for expandable storage up to 2 GB. This feature provided users the flexibility to carry a significant amount of music and data on their device—a critical advantage for a multimedia-focused phone.

Connectivity and Network

Connectivity options on the Sony Ericsson W800 included GSM technology supporting 2G bands (GSM 900/1800/1900), ensuring decent network coverage and call quality for its time. The W800 was equipped with Bluetooth 2.0 for wireless file sharing, and although it lacked modern connectivity options like WLAN and GPS, it did provide an infrared port for certain wireless operations. Browsing capabilities were facilitated by WAP 2.0/xHTML support, allowing basic internet connectivity and functionality.

Battery Life

A significant advantage of the W800 was its robust battery life. Powered by a removable Li-Po 900 mAh battery (BST-36), the phone could achieve up to 400 hours of standby time, 9 hours of talk time, and up to 19 hours of music playtime. These statistics were impressive for its era, making it suitable for prolonged use during travel or commutes without frequent recharging.

Additional Features

Apart from its core functionalities, the W800 offered a variety of additional features such as customizable alert types including vibration, downloadable polyphonic ringtones, and a selection of pre-installed and downloadable games. Messaging options were comprehensive, including SMS, EMS, MMS, Email, and Instant Messaging, which catered to a wide range of communication needs. Java support further expanded its range of applications and software compatibility.

Conclusion

The Sony Ericsson W800 was more than just a mobile phone; it was a precursor to the multifunctional smartphones we know today. By merging traditional telephony with robust music capabilities, the W800 set a precedent for a new breed of "smart" mobile devices. Although its technology appears basic by today's standards, the W800's influence on mobile design and functionality remains significant. For users who experienced the early days of mobile multimedia, the Sony Ericsson W800 remains a nostalgic symbol of innovation and transformation within the industry.