VK Mobile VK800 Specs Pricing Pros & Cons Uncovered

Overview of VK Mobile VK800

The VK Mobile VK800 was a feature phone launched in 2005, primarily targeting users who appreciated a compact mobile device with essential features. As with many feature phones from this era, it focused more on providing fundamental telecommunications services rather than advanced smartphone capabilities. Despite its eventual discontinuation, the VK800 remains a part of VK Mobile's interesting portfolio from the mid-2000s.

Design and Build

The VK Mobile VK800 boasts a diminutive design with dimensions of 79 x 44 x 23.7 mm, making it easily portable and perfect for users interested in minimalistic design. It weighs merely 79 grams, a feature that further emphasizes its portability. The device came in three colors: White, Silver, and Red, allowing for some personalization based on user preferences. It utilized a Mini-SIM format, which was standard during the time of its release.

Display

Sporting a compact TFT display capable of showcasing 256K colors, the VK800's screen offered a basic visual experience in keeping with its feature phone status. Its resolution stood at 128 x 143 pixels, which provided adequate visual clarity for the interface and basic media tasks, although it was far from the high-definition displays that would become common later.

Camera

For its time, the VK800 included a reasonable 1.3 MP rear camera, suitable for capturing basic photos. This feature was a highlight since not all feature phones included cameras. It supported video recording, albeit at a low resolution. The lack of a front-facing camera is consistent with the device's focus on simplicity and essential functions.

Network and Connectivity

The VK Mobile VK800 operated on GSM networks with support for GSM 900 / 1800 bands, offering decent connectivity for voice calls and text messaging. It supported GPRS Class 10 for basic data services, useful for essential online browsing and messaging. However, it lacked support for EDGE, WLAN, Bluetooth, and positioning technologies; these omissions aligned with its role as a basic feature phone.

Memory and Storage

In terms of memory, the VK800 did not support expandable storage via a card slot. It came with an internal phonebook capacity of 500 entries with photo call capability. This was a standard feature that allowed users to store important contacts efficiently. The device also kept logs for 20 dialed, 20 received, and 20 missed calls. These features highlight the VK800’s focus on being a reliable tool for communication.

Battery Life

Powering the VK800 is a removable Li-Ion 720 mAh battery, designed to support the phone’s low-power requirements. Additionally, there was an option for an extended 900 mAh battery for users needing more prolonged use times. While specific standby and talk times are not provided, the battery was sufficient for the limited energy demands typical of feature phones.

Sound and Entertainment

The VK800 included vibration alerts and support for downloadable polyphonic and MP3 ringtones. However, it lacked a loudspeaker and more advanced audio features like a 3.5mm jack for headphones. Despite its basic sound capabilities, it still managed to offer downloadable entertainment in the form of Java-based games, an appreciated addition for users interested in casual gaming.

Software and Features

Running on a basic feature phone operating system, the VK800 offered messaging services such as SMS, EMS, and MMS. It included a WAP 2.0/xHTML browser for limited internet access. Java MIDP 2.0 support allowed for the execution of simple applications and games, providing basic functionality for users wanting more than just telecommunication services.

Legacy and Impact

Despite being discontinued, the VK Mobile VK800 stands as an example of the transitional phase in mobile technology during the mid-2000s. It bridges the gap between basic mobile phones and the more advanced smartphones that would soon dominate. The device's focus on compact design and essential features catered to users who prioritized simplicity and reliability over the advanced capabilities associated with more modern devices.