Price and specifications of Spice Mi-438 Stellar Glide advantages, disadvantages, and a comprehensive explanation

Overview of Spice Mi-438 Stellar Glide

The Spice Mi-438 Stellar Glide is a smartphone that was released in June 2014. Despite being discontinued, it still captures attention due to its affordable pricing and basic functionalities. As a device catering to entry-level users, it offers essential features required for daily use.

Design and Build

The Spice Mi-438 measures 145 x 79 x 9.5 mm and weighs around 155 grams. Its compact and lightweight design makes it portable and easy to handle. The phone includes a Dual SIM feature, which supports Mini-SIM cards, providing flexibility for users requiring multiple mobile networks.

Display

This device features a 4.0-inch TFT display that constitutes a moderate-sized screen for its category. With a resolution of 480 x 800 pixels, it delivers a pixel density of approximately 233 ppi, which is sufficient for basic multimedia consumption, browsing, and app usage. While it does not compete with modern smartphones regarding resolution and clarity, it suits the needs of casual users efficiently.

Performance and Platform

The Spice Mi-438 runs on Android 4.2 Jelly Bean, a now-vintage operating system. The device is powered by unspecified hardware specifications for its processor and RAM, but given its market segment, it caters to basic smartphone operations. Users should not expect high-speed performance or multitasking capabilities but can rely on it for essential smartphone functionalities.

Camera Features

Regarding photography, the Mi-438 is equipped with a 2 MP rear camera. While the camera is at the lower end of the spectrum compared to today’s standards, it allows users to capture basic images and videos. A 1.3 MP front camera is also available for selfies and video calls, serving minimalistic needs.

Battery Life

The device includes a Li-Ion 1350 mAh battery, which supports a standby time of up to 170 hours and a talk time of approximately 4 hours and 30 minutes. These specifications indicate modest battery life, reflecting the phone's average power consumption expected of its features and performance capabilities.

Storage and Memory

Storage options on the Spice Mi-438 Stellar Glide are quite limited, with the presence of a microSDHC slot, allowing for external storage expansion. No internal storage capacity details are provided, but the inclusion of expandable storage is beneficial for users looking to store basic apps, images, and small files.

Connectivity

The connectivity features of the Spice Mi-438 include GSM and HSPA technologies, with support for 2G and 3G bands. It offers Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n for wireless internet access, Bluetooth 4.0 with A2DP, GPS for navigation, and a microUSB port for charging and data transfer. The absence of NFC is notable, which aligns with its designation as a basic entry-level phone.

Audio and Multimedia

For audio, the device offers a loudspeaker and a 3.5 mm headphone jack, allowing users to enjoy music and radio through familiar interfaces. An FM radio feature is included for local radio access, catering to users interested in live radio broadcasts. These features highlight the Mi-438's dedication to offering essential multimedia experiences.

Sensors and Additional Features

The phone incorporates an accelerometer sensor, which is fundamental for screen orientation changes and motion detection. Its basic sensor array is typical for devices within this range, focusing largely on practical necessities rather than advanced functionalities.

Price and Availability

At launch, the Spice Mi-438 Stellar Glide was valued at approximately 60 EUR. Although discontinued, when available, it serves as a budget-friendly choice for individuals seeking basic smartphone capabilities without the need for advanced features or high performance.

Conclusion

The Spice Mi-438 Stellar Glide embodies the characteristics of early 2010s smartphones. With its fundamental features, it is suited for individuals who require a device for basic communication, light browsing, and simple multimedia needs. Its affordability was a significant selling point, providing valuable insight into the entry-level smartphone market of its time.