The Story Behind the BenQ-Siemens C31: A Cancelled Feature Phone from 2007
In the early 2000s, BenQ and Siemens collaborated to create a lineup of mobile devices under the brand name BenQ-Siemens. One of these devices was the C31, a basic feature phone that was announced in June 2007 but ultimately never released to the market.
Cancellation and Release Date
The BenQ-Siemens C31 was unfortunately cancelled before being released to the public. This decision came after the device had been announced in June 2007, leaving potential customers disappointed and confused.
Design and Dimensions
The C31 boasted a compact and lightweight design with a thickness of 16.7mm and a weight of just 86g. It featured a mini-SIM card slot and a 1.8 inch TFT display with 256K colors. However, compared to modern smartphones, the C31's screen had a low resolution of 176 x 220 pixels, resulting in a low pixel density of approximately 157 ppi.
Network and Technology
As a feature phone, the BenQ-Siemens C31 was limited in its network capabilities. It could only connect to 2G GSM networks using bands 900, 1800, and 1900. It also had GPRS (General Packet Radio Service) technology, but lacked EDGE (Enhanced Data Rates for GSM Evolution) which was common in other phones at the time.
Storage and Memory
For storage, the C31 came with 20MB of internal memory and a microSD card slot for expandable storage. It also had a basic phonebook with photo call functionality and the ability to store up to 20 dialed, received, and missed calls. However, compared to modern smartphones with gigabytes of storage capacity, 20MB seems extremely limited.
Camera and Other Features
The C31 may have been a basic phone, but it did have a single 1.3MP camera for capturing photos and videos. However, the lack of a front-facing camera meant no selfies could be taken. It also had a loudspeaker, FM radio, and a USB 1.1 port, but lacked modern features such as Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and GPS.
In terms of software, the C31 ran on a feature phone operating system and had WAP (Wireless Application Protocol) for browsing the internet. It also had basic games and Java support for running applications. Other notable features include a music player, predictive text input, and various tools like a voice memo, stopwatch, and organizer.
Battery Life and Colors
As with most feature phones, the C31 had a removable battery. Its Li-ion 920 mAh battery could provide up to 170 hours of standby time and up to 3.5 hours of talk time. It was available in two color options: SilverShine and GraphiteGloss.
Why Was the C31 Cancelled?
The reason for the cancellation of the BenQ-Siemens C31 is not entirely clear. However, it is possible that the company faced financial difficulties or issues with production that led to the decision. Whatever the reason may be, the C31 remains a cancelled device in the history of mobile technology.
Despite never being released, the BenQ-Siemens C31 still holds a place in the vast world of mobile devices. It serves as a reminder of how technology has evolved and how much we rely on our phones in today's modern world.
