Vodafone 340 All Specs Prices Pros & Cons

Overview of Vodafone 340

The Vodafone 340, released in November 2009, is a discontinued feature phone that was predominantly marketed for its basic functionality and affordability. It is a compact mobile device that catered to users seeking simplicity rather than the advanced features offered by smartphones. Below, we delve into its specifications, features, and user experience to provide a comprehensive understanding of the Vodafone 340.

Network and Connectivity

The Vodafone 340 supports GSM technology with 2G bands GSM 900 / 1800, making it suitable for basic communication needs such as calling and texting. It offers GPRS Class 10 for data connectivity, suitable for basic internet activities like sending emails or using a WAP browser; however, it lacks EDGE support, limiting its internet browsing capabilities. The phone does not support WLAN or positioning services, but it includes Bluetooth for short-range wireless data transmission, along with a proprietary USB for charging and file transfers.

Design and Build Quality

The device measures 109 x 45.5 x 12 mm and weighs only 69 grams, making it a lightweight and portable option for users. It includes a Mini-SIM slot and was offered in three color variants: Black, White, and Pink. The aesthetic is minimalistic, focusing purely on functionality without the modern touchscreen experience we are now accustomed to.

Display

The Vodafone 340 comes with a 1.5-inch TFT display that supports 65K colors. With a resolution of 128 x 160 pixels, and a pixel density of approximately 137 ppi, the screen provides just enough clarity for text messaging and basic phone menus. It features a very limited screen-to-body ratio of about 14.3%, as the bezels and phone casing are quite prominent around the display area.

Camera

Equipped with a single VGA camera, the Vodafone 340 offers basic photography capabilities with its 0.3 MP lens. The camera serves as a utility rather than a feature for capturing high-quality images. There is no front-facing camera, and the device does not support video recording, which confines the camera usage strictly to photographs.

Audio and Sound

On the audio front, the Vodafone 340 includes a built-in loudspeaker. However, it does not support a 3.5mm audio jack. Users can enjoy FM radio through the loudspeaker, providing an accessible medium for music and news, given that there is no media storage for audio files on the device.

Memory

The device offers 2MB of internal storage and does not support expandable storage like microSD cards. As a result, users are limited to the phonebook and call records it can store within this space. The focus remains on fundamental mobile functions rather than media storage or app usage.

Battery Life

Featuring a removable Li-Ion 700 mAh battery, the phone provides a standby time of up to 270 hours and a talk time of up to 3 hours. Considering its power-efficient design due to its lack of complex features, the battery life is quite reasonable for users primarily interested in basic phone usage.

Software and Features

As a feature phone, the Vodafone 340 runs on a proprietary operating system meant to handle essential tasks such as messaging, which includes SMS, MMS, and emailing capabilities. The device also features a WAP 2.0/xHTML browser suitable for limited web browsing experiences within the constraints of its screen size and connectivity capabilities. It includes basic games, enhancing its utility as more than just a communication device.

Conclusion and Market Position

In conclusion, the Vodafone 340 stands as a reflection of mobile phone trends during the late 2000s, where affordability and basic communication capability were prioritized for certain market segments. While discontinued, its low-cost appeal (originally priced around 20 EUR) and emphasis on simple functionality illustrate its targeted user base—those seeking an entry-level phone or a reliable second device. Despite contrasting against today’s technology, the Vodafone 340 maintains its charm as a straightforward communication tool without the frills of modern smartphones.