Spice Mi496 Coolpad 2 Complete Specs Pricing & ProsCons

Overview of Spice Mi-496 Spice Coolpad 2

The Spice Mi-496 Spice Coolpad 2 was announced and released in November 2013. Despite its discontinuation, it remains a device of historical significance within the mobile technology landscape. The phone offers a balance of features and performance suitable for users seeking essential smartphone functionality without the bells and whistles of more modern devices. Its dual SIM capability and Android operating system make it a versatile choice for basic communication and application needs.

Network Capabilities

The Spice Mi-496 Spice Coolpad 2 supports GSM and HSPA technologies, providing a reliable network experience for mobile communication. It operates on 2G bands GSM 900/1800 for both SIM slots, and also supports 3G band HSDPA 2100 for faster internet connectivity and improved call quality. The device supports HSPA speed, which was adequate for browsing and streaming in the time it was released.

Design and Build

The exact dimensions and weight of the Spice Mi-496 are unspecified, but it comes with a robust Dual SIM feature that adds convenience for users who need to maintain two distinct lines, whether for personal and business purposes or to take advantage of different network coverage and pricing plans. It is available in a classic white color, offering a clean and simple aesthetic.

Display

The device features a 4.5-inch TFT display with a resolution of 540 x 960 pixels. This size and resolution offer a decent viewing experience for its time, making the device suitable for browsing, watching videos, and playing basic games. The 16:9 aspect ratio was standard, providing a balanced and adequately detailed visual interface at approximately 245 ppi density.

Platform and Performance

Powered by the Android 4.1 (Jelly Bean) operating system, the Spice Mi-496 takes advantage of the MediaTek MT6589 chipset, which is fabricated on the 28 nm process. It uses a Quad-core 1.2 GHz Cortex-A7 CPU, delivering acceptable performance for multitasking and handling everyday applications. The PowerVR SGX544 GPU supports graphical tasks and enhances the visual output of the device.

Memory and Storage

The phone is equipped with 1GB of RAM, which allows for reasonable multitasking capabilities given the era of its release. Its internal storage of 4GB can be expanded via a dedicated microSDHC slot, offering users the flexibility to store more apps, media, and personal content. Though limited by today's standards, this was typical for mid-range smartphones of its time.

Camera Specifications

The device sports a single 5 MP main camera that includes autofocus (AF) and an LED flash, enabling satisfactory photo capturing and video recording for routine uses. Although modest, this camera setup was competitive for its time, allowing users to document everyday moments with decent quality. The device, however, lacks a dedicated front-facing camera for selfies or video calls.

Audio and Connectivity

The Spice Mi-496 provides standard audio functionalities with a loudspeaker and a 3.5mm headphone jack, ensuring compatibility with most audio accessories. Connectivity options include Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n for wireless internet access, Bluetooth for short-range data transmission, A-GPS for basic positioning and navigation, FM radio support, and microUSB for charging and data transfer. However, it does not support NFC technology.

Sensors and Extra Features

In terms of sensors, the device includes an accelerometer and proximity sensor, which contribute to enhanced interaction and usability for certain applications and functionalities, such as auto-rotation and managing screen activity during calls.

Battery Life

The Spice Mi-496 is powered by a Li-Ion 1700 mAh battery, which provides an adequate amount of power for moderate daily use. Users can expect to comfortably get through a day's usage involving calls, texting, and basic app usage without frequent recharging.

Price and Market Position

Upon its release, the device was priced at approximately 110 EUR, positioning it in the budget segment of the smartphone market. This made it an accessible option for individuals seeking an affordable yet capable device for essential smartphone duties.

Conclusion

The Spice Mi-496 Spice Coolpad 2, while no longer in production, offered a viable option for users in need of a budget phone that could handle core functions effectively. Its specifications were aligned with the standard mid-range category of its time, offering sufficient performance and connectivity features to satisfy basic consumer needs. As technology advanced, this device remains a reminder of the transitional phase in mobile technology towards more advanced, multifunctional smartphones.