Spice M5600 FLO TV Features Prices Pros and Cons Unveiled

Overview

The Spice M-5600 FLO TV, launched in the second quarter of 2012, was a feature phone that brought together basic functionalities with some media capabilities. Although it has been discontinued, it remains a notable device in the history of feature phones for its inclusion of a TV feature at a very affordable price. This article will delve into the technical specifications, design, and features that defined the Spice M-5600 FLO TV, providing a comprehensive understanding of this unique mobile device.

Design and Build

Weighing 110 grams and measuring 112.8 x 60.5 x 12.8 mm, the Spice M-5600 FLO TV featured a relatively compact and ergonomic build. This was quite typical for feature phones of the time, providing users with a device that was easy to hold and use with one hand. The device came in two color options, black and white, offering a classic aesthetic appeal.

Display

The phone was equipped with a 3.2-inch TFT display with a resolution of 240 x 320 pixels. This resulted in a pixel density of approximately 125 ppi, which was sufficient for basic phone functions such as texting, calling, and browsing through the phone's interface. The screen-to-body ratio was about 46.5%, providing a moderate viewing area that was typical for feature phones of that era.

Camera

The Spice M-5600 FLO TV featured a single 1.3 MP rear camera which allowed for basic photo capturing and video recording. While modest by today’s standards, this camera setup was sufficient for capturing simple, everyday moments and complemented the phone’s affordable price point.

Memory and Storage

The device had a dedicated microSDHC card slot, which allowed for expandable storage. This was a crucial feature for users who needed more storage capacity for media files like photos, videos, and music. The phonebook capacity was able to store up to 2000 entries, and it supported photo call functionality, which was an added convenience for users.

Network and Connectivity

As a GSM device, the Spice M-5600 FLO TV supported 2G network bands (GSM 900/1800). While it did not support EDGE, it did include basic GPRS functionality, allowing users to perform very basic online tasks. Connectivity options included Bluetooth 2.0 for file transfers and a microUSB port for charging and data transfers. Unfortunately, the device lacked WLAN and positioning features, limiting its connectivity capabilities to a certain extent.

Battery Life

The device housed a removable Li-Ion 1200 mAh battery. This was adequate for a feature phone, providing enough power to last a full day, depending on the intensity of usage. The removable nature of the battery was an advantage, as it allowed users to replace it easily without needing professional assistance.

Additional Features

The Spice M-5600 FLO TV was equipped with some interesting features for its time. It came with an FM radio that not only supported standard listening but also included recording capabilities. This allowed users to save their favorite broadcasts for later playback. Additionally, users could download games, adding an entertainment aspect to the device.

Television Feature

Arguably the standout feature of this phone was its ability to function as a TV. This feature allowed users to watch television on the go, which was quite a novelty at the time for a device in its price range. This functionality significantly boosted the phone's appeal to users who wanted more entertainment options in a mobile device.

Operating System

The operating system on the Spice M-5600 FLO TV was a basic feature phone OS. It provided all essential functionalities such as calling, messaging (SMS and MMS), and various utilities. The absence of modern smartphone operating systems meant that app availability and advanced functionalities were limited, focusing primarily on core phone tasks and entertainment via FM radio and TV.

Market Position and Price

At the time of its release, the Spice M-5600 FLO TV was priced at approximately 30 EUR, making it an affordable option for consumers seeking basic mobile telephony with added entertainment functionalities. It was particularly appealing in emerging markets where access to television and internet through home devices might have been limited.

Reception and Legacy

The introduction of a TV feature within a budget-friendly feature phone was an innovative move by Spice, aligning with the company's strategy to provide more value at affordable price points. While it may not have left a lasting impact on the technology world as smartphones continued their dominance, the Spice M-5600 FLO TV exemplifies the creative ways in which manufacturers sought to enhance user experience within the constraints of feature phone technology.