ZTE Open C Unveiling Features Pricing & More

Overview of ZTE Open C

The ZTE Open C, launched in 2014, was a significant step in the evolution of entry-level smartphones. It was one of the few devices at the time that ran on the Firefox OS, an open-source operating system developed by Mozilla. The device was primarily targeted at users who were transitioning from feature phones to smartphones, offering a cost-effective solution without compromising on basic functionality.

Design and Build

The ZTE Open C features a compact and straightforward design. With dimensions of 126 x 64.7 x 10.8 mm and a weight of 125 grams, it was designed to be lightweight and easy to handle. The device was available in two colors: Orange and Black, allowing users a bit of customization in terms of appearance. The build quality, while not premium, was adequate for its price range, with a sturdy construction that catered to basic daily needs.

Display

The smartphone sports a 4.0-inch TFT screen with a resolution of 480 x 800 pixels. The display offered a pixel density of approximately 233 ppi. While not the most vibrant or highest resolution screen available, it was sufficient for browsing the internet, using apps, and basic multimedia consumption. The screen occupied about 55.9% of the front surface of the device, which was typical for smartphones at the time.

Performance and Hardware

Powering the ZTE Open C is the Qualcomm MSM8210 Snapdragon 200 chipset with a dual-core 1.2 GHz Cortex-A7 CPU and an Adreno 302 GPU. Considering its entry-level segment, the device delivered satisfactory performance for everyday tasks such as calling, messaging, and light app usage. With 512MB of RAM and 4GB of internal storage, the device was not intended for heavy multitasking or storing large volumes of media. However, storage expansion was possible via the dedicated microSDHC card slot.

Operating System: Firefox OS

A unique feature of the ZTE Open C is its operation on Firefox OS 1.3. Firefox OS brought a different approach with its web-first focus, meaning apps were primarily web-based rather than native installs. This was intended to make the platform adaptable across various hardware configurations and appealing to developers familiar with HTML, CSS, and JavaScript.

Camera

The ZTE Open C was equipped with a 3.15 MP rear camera capable of capturing basic photos. It supported video recording at 352x288 pixels at 15fps. There was no dedicated front camera, which reflected its positioning as an entry-level device. The camera performance was functional for basic photography needs but was not intended for enthusiasts seeking high-quality images or video capture.

Connectivity

Connectivity options on the ZTE Open C included GSM and HSPA technology, with 2G and 3G band support; specifically, HSDPA 900/2100 for European regions. It supported Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n allowing users to connect to wireless internet networks, and it featured Bluetooth 2.1 for connecting to peripherals. The device also included GPS capability for basic location and navigation functions, although it lacked NFC support.

Battery Life

A 1400 mAh Li-Ion removable battery powered the ZTE Open C. While not exceptionally large, this battery capacity was adequate for the hardware, enabling up to 150 hours of standby time and up to 6 hours of talk time. The removable nature of the battery was advantageous for users who preferred carrying spare batteries or needed replacements.

Sound and Multimedia

The ZTE Open C came with a standard 3.5mm audio jack and built-in loudspeaker, enabling users to listen to music and multimedia content without additional accessories. It also featured FM radio functionality, a feature appreciated by users who enjoyed accessing live broadcast content without data charges.

Sensors and Additional Features

The device was equipped with an accelerometer, a standard sensor for detecting motion and orientation of the device. While it lacked some of the more advanced sensors found in higher-end models, it sufficed for most basic applications and games available on Firefox OS.

Pricing and Market Position

When launched, the ZTE Open C was priced at approximately 70 EUR, which positioned it as one of the more affordable smartphones available at the time. This pricing made it accessible to a broad audience, particularly in developing markets, or as a secondary device for more budget-conscious consumers.

Conclusion

The ZTE Open C was a practical entry-level smartphone aimed at users transitioning to smart devices or those on a tight budget. By integrating Firefox OS, ZTE provided a platform for alternative app development and user experience. Although it lacked the advanced features of more expensive smartphones, it achieved its goal of providing essential connectivity and functionality to a wide range of users.