The Discontinued Bird S890: A Remembrance of a Feature Phone
Introduction
Cellphones have revolutionized the way we communicate and connect with others. With advancements in technology, smartphones have become an essential part of our daily lives. However, there was a time when feature phones were all the rage. In 2005, Bird, a Chinese mobile phone brand, announced the release of their new feature phone, the S890. Let's take a walk down memory lane and reminisce about this once popular device.
Release Date and Operating System
The Bird S890 was announced in the third quarter of 2005. It was supposed to join the long line of feature phones in the market. However, before its release, the phone was cancelled. The reason behind this sudden decision remains unknown. The S890 was designed as a feature phone, which means it was not equipped with advanced features like smartphones. It ran on a basic operating system, suitable for making calls, sending messages, and performing other simple functions.
Dimensions and Storage
The S890 had slim dimensions, making it easy to hold and carry around. Unfortunately, it did not come with a card slot to expand its storage capacity. This meant that users had to rely solely on the phone's internal storage, which was limited.
Network and Connectivity
The S890 worked on the GSM network and supported 2G bands of GSM 900/1800. The phone also had GPRS, which allowed for basic internet connectivity. However, it did not have EDGE technology. The phone's lack of Bluetooth and WLAN made it difficult to transfer files and connect to Wi-Fi networks.
Display and Camera
The S890 had a small TFT display screen with 256K colors. It had a resolution of 128 x 160 pixels, which was standard for feature phones at that time. The phone also had a 1.3MP rear camera, which was considered advanced for feature phones back then. It did not have a front-facing camera.
Memory and Features
The S890 did not have a card slot, so users had to manage with the phone's internal storage. It could store only 300 entries in the phonebook and had limited space for call records. The phone also came with two pre-installed games, and Java technology allowed users to download more games. Other features included an organizer, world time, and voice memo.
Battery Life and Other Details
The S890 had a removable Li-Ion battery, capable of lasting up to 72 hours on standby and three hours of talk time. It also had a loudspeaker and downloadable polyphonic ringtones for call and message alerts. However, it lacked a 3.5mm headphone jack and any kind of sensors.
Conclusion
The Bird S890 may have been cancelled before its official release, but it still holds a special place in the hearts of those who remember it. Despite its simple features, the phone was a symbol of status and advancement during its time. It may not have revolutionized the mobile phone industry, but it certainly left a mark as a reliable and sleek feature phone.