With the constant evolution of smartphones, it's easy to forget about the devices that paved the way for our current mobile technology. In the early 2000s, when phones were primarily used for calling and texting, Benefon released the Twin+ feature phone. Despite being discontinued, this device made a lasting impact with its unique features and design.
A Compact Design Ahead of Its Time
The Twin+ was released in 2000 and instantly stood out with its compact dimensions. At just 27mm thick and weighing only 105g, it was one of the lightest and slimmest phones at the time. This made it extremely portable and easy to carry around.
The phone's body had a unique shape with curved corners, making it comfortable to hold. It also featured a dual SIM function, allowing users to switch between two different numbers with ease.
A Monochrome Display With Added Personalization
The Twin+ had a monochrome graphic display that was not only ahead of its time but also customizable. Users could change the font size and choose from several electro-luminescent lighting options, making it easier to read in different lighting conditions.
User-Friendly Features and Functions
Despite being a basic feature phone, the Twin+ had some impressive functionalities. It could store up to 255 contacts in its phonebook and keep records of 15 dialed, 5 received, and 5 missed calls. It also featured three built-in games - Wall Breaker, Galactic Gunner, and Labyrinth.
In terms of sound, the phone allowed users to personalize their alert tones and even had ascending ringtone options. It also offered several SMS alert tones with different volume levels.
Connectivity Options and Battery Life
The Twin+ may not have had advanced connectivity options like Bluetooth or Wi-Fi, but it did come with a stereo FM radio and RDS support. It also had a USB port for charging.
One notable feature of the Twin+ was its removable Li-Ion 650 mAh battery, which could last up to 120 hours on standby and provide 5 hours and 20 minutes of talk time. For those who needed a longer battery life, Benefon also offered a Lithium-ion 1100 mAh battery pack that could keep the phone running for 200 hours on standby and provide 9 hours of talk time.
The Legacy of the Twin+
The Twin+ may have been discontinued, but its legacy continues to live on. It was one of the first devices to offer location-based services, predictive text input, and user-changeable display masks. These features paved the way for future advancements in mobile technology.
In addition, with its affordable price and compact design, the Twin+ was the perfect choice for many users who were not yet ready to switch to a smartphone. It also came in three vibrant colors, giving consumers some customization options.
In conclusion, the Twin+ by Benefon was a revolutionary device that offered unique features and functions ahead of its time. It was the perfect choice for those looking for a compact and user-friendly feature phone. Though it may no longer be in production, it will always be remembered as a pioneer in the fast-evolving world of mobile technology.
Benefon Twin+ Full Specifications
Network
Technology
GSM
2G bands
GSM 900 / 1800
GPRS
No
EDGE
No
Launch
Announced
2000
Status
Discontinued
Body
Dimensions
112 x 49 x 27 mm, 115 cc (4.41 x 1.93 x 1.06 in)
Weight
105 g (3.70 oz)
SIM
Dual SIM (Mini-SIM)
Display
Type
Monochrome graphic
Size
Resolution
100 x 48 pixels, 6 lines
Other
Electro-luminescent lighting
Dynamic & user-selectable font size
Memory
Card slot
No
Phonebook
255
Call records
15 dialed, 5 received, 5 missed calls
Camera
Other
No
Sound
Loudspeaker
No
Alert types
Downloadable monophonic ringtones
3.5mm jack
No
Other
Personalised ringing melodies
Ascending alert
Several SMS alert tones and tone levels
Comms
WLAN
No
Bluetooth
No
Positioning
No
Radio
Stereo FM radio, RDS
USB
Features
Sensors
Messaging
SMS
Browser
Clock
Yes
Alarm
Yes
Games
3 - Wall breaker, Galactic gunner, Labyrinth
Java
No
Other
Location-based services support
Predictive text input
Organizer
Phone ON/OFF timers
User-changeable display masks