Headline: A Look Back at the GA 628 - Ericsson's Iconic Feature Phone Released in 1996
The year was 1996. The internet was still in its early days, smartphones were non-existent, and most people relied on traditional feature phones for communication. In the world of mobile devices, Ericsson's GA 628 stood out with its sleek design and innovative features.
Now, more than two decades later, let's take a trip down memory lane and explore the specs of this iconic device.
Introducing the GA 628 - Ericsson's Feature Phone
The GA 628 was a feature phone released by the Swedish telecommunications company Ericsson in 1996. With its compact dimensions of 130 x 49 x 28 mm and a weight of 160 g, it was considered one of the lightest and most portable devices of its time. The phone's thickness, at 28 mm, was also impressive considering the technology used back then.
Up to this day, the GA 628 maintains its classic and timeless design. It had a removable front panel that allowed users to change the phone's appearance according to their preference. This feature was a hit among fashion-conscious individuals, making the GA 628 a symbol of style and sophistication.
Impressive Specifications for its Time
Unlike the modern-day smartphones that we have now, the GA 628 was a feature phone that ran on a basic operating system. It did not support advanced functionalities such as internet connectivity or app usage. Instead, it was focused on being a reliable communication device.
The GA 628 had a mini-SIM card slot, allowing users to connect to the GSM 900 network. During its time, this was a cutting-edge feature that provided users with stable and high-quality calls. Unfortunately, the device did not have any GPRS or EDGE support, which are necessary for internet access.
Alphanumeric Display and Limited Memory Capacity
One of the standout features of the GA 628 was its alphanumeric display. It had a one by 12 character resolution, which might seem laughable now, but it was sufficient for sending short text messages. The display also had fixed icons, making device navigation easier for users.
In terms of memory, the GA 628 fell short compared to modern smartphones. It did not have a card slot for external storage, and its phone book and call record capacities were limited. However, it had a built-in scratchpad that served as a basic notepad for storing important information.
Long Battery Life and Other Features
Despite its limited memory capacity, the GA 628 boasted a long-lasting battery life. It had a removable NiMH 1000 mAh battery that could last up to 83 hours on standby and 125 minutes of talk time. This was a significant feat back in 1996, considering that most phones at that time required frequent charging.
Other features of the GA 628 included SMS messaging, a monophonic ringtone system, and an alarm clock. However, it did not have a loudspeaker or a 3.5mm jack for audio playback. These were not deal-breakers since most people primarily used their phones for making calls and sending text messages.
A Discontinued Classic
The GA 628 had a short stint in the market, as it was eventually discontinued in the early 2000s. Despite this, it left a lasting impression on users and became a nostalgic symbol of the past. It was an iconic device that represented Ericsson's commitment to innovation and exceptional design.
There may be more technologically advanced devices out there now, but the GA 628 will always hold a special place in the hearts of its users. It was a pioneer in the world of mobile phones, and its legacy lives on even after all these years.
