VK4000 Unveiled Specs Pricing Pros & Cons

Overview of VK Mobile VK4000

The VK Mobile VK4000, released in March 2006, captured the attention of many mobile phone enthusiasts with its compact design and basic yet functional features. Though discontinued now, it remains a memorable device from an era when mobile phones were primarily used for calls and simple messaging. This article embarks on an extensive journey to explore the specifications, features, and impact of the VK Mobile VK4000 in the mobile phone sector.

Design and Build

The VK4000 boasts dimensions of 85 x 43 x 21 mm, making it exceptionally compact and easy to carry. Weighing just 79 grams, it’s lightweight and doesn’t feel cumbersome when held or carried in a pocket. The phone features a mini-SIM slot, aligning with the standard at the time of its release. The robust build and black color finish give it a classic appearance, appealing to users who prefer understated elegance in their handheld devices.

Display Characteristics

The phone is equipped with a 1.8-inch TFT display supporting 256K colors, providing basic visibility and color reproduction adequate for its functionalities during that period. With a resolution of 128 x 160 pixels and approximately 114 ppi density, the screen ensures sufficient clarity for viewing messages and contacts. Although the screen-to-body ratio comes to 27.9%, typical for its time, the display serves its purpose effectively by offering straightforward visuals.

Camera Specifications

The VK4000 includes a VGA camera with a 0.3MP resolution. While it doesn’t support video capture, the camera was suitable for quick and simple snapshots. In 2006, mobile photography was emerging, and the inclusion of a camera, even at a basic level, was seen as a plus point, although it might be considered quite rudimentary by today's standards.

Battery Performance

Fitted with an 800mAh removable Li-Ion battery, the VK4000 offered decent battery life given its limited energy consumption. Designed to cater to essential communication needs, its battery supported the user through regular usage efficiently. Although technological advancements have significantly boosted battery capacities in recent years, during its time, having a removable battery added convenience for users needing to replace it when necessary.

Storage and Memory

Regarding storage, the device came with 128MB of internal memory with the flexibility of expanding via a card slot. This was quite adequate for storing contacts, a handful of images, and messages. It supported storing multiple call records and could accommodate a sufficient number of files and ringtones. While no specific RAM data is available, phones in this category functioned efficiently without requiring high memory capacity.

Network and Connectivity

The VK4000 supports GSM technology across multiple 2G bands (850/900/1800/1900). Users could benefit from GPRS Class 10 technology for basic data connectivity. However, the phone did not support EDGE or advanced data protocols, limiting internet usability largely to WAP browsing. Bluetooth connectivity was present for sharing files and pairing with compatible devices, although WLAN, advanced positioning, and radio were absent. A proprietary USB was used for wired connections.

Sound Features

The VK4000 didn't feature a loudspeaker or a 3.5mm audio jack, which meant using downloadable polyphonic and MP3 ringtones was a way for users to personalize their phone's sound alerts. Vibration was a standard alert type, ensuring users didn’t miss notifications or calls even in noisy environments or when keeping the phone discreet.

Messaging and Apps

In terms of communication, the VK4000 supported SMS, EMS, and MMS messaging services. Its WAP 2.0/xHTML browser enabled simplistic web navigation. The device was JAVA (MIDP 2.0) enabled, thus allowing basic third-party apps and games to function, offering a level of entertainment and utility typical of feature phones in its category.

Price and Market Impact

With an approximate launch price of 60 EUR, the VK Mobile VK4000 was positioned as an affordable choice for users seeking basic mobile functionalities. Its release and subsequent performance highlight the transitional phase in the mobile industry, moving from mere communication devices to more multimedia and internet-driven platforms. While its production has been discontinued, VK4000 remains a noteworthy entry reflecting the mobile technology landscape of the mid-2000s.

Conclusion

The VK Mobile VK4000, although not groundbreaking by today’s standards, represented an era where mobile phones were becoming more than just calling devices. Its features and design provided users with essential functionality wrapped in a compact package. This device holds historical significance in illustrating the progression of mobile technology and its expanding role in daily life.