The Ericsson R520m: A Feature Phone Ahead of its Time
The Ericsson R520m, released in Q2 of 2001, was a feature phone that quickly gained popularity due to its advanced features and sleek design. This device, manufactured by the Swedish company Ericsson, was revolutionary for its time and set the foundation for future mobile phones. Let's take a closer look at this impressive device.
Design and Dimensions
The R520m weighed in at only 105g with a thickness of just 16mm, making it a lightweight and compact phone. Its dimensions, measuring at 130 x 50 x 16 mm, were considered small at the time and contributed to its portability. The phone also had a mini-SIM slot, which was a standard feature for mobile phones back then.
Display and Memory
The monochrome graphic display of the R520m may not seem impressive now, but at the time, it was a huge improvement from previous feature phones. The display featured 5 lines, providing a clear and easy-to-read interface. However, one downside to the R520m was its storage capacity. The phone did not have a card slot, meaning users were limited to the phone's internal memory. Fortunately, the R520m did have a phonebook that could store up to 500+ contacts.
Communication and Connectivity
The R520m had the ability to connect to GSM networks in the 900, 1800, and 1900 bands. It also featured GPRS technology, allowing for basic internet connectivity. The phone had a 1.0b version of Bluetooth, which was relatively new at the time and enabled users to share files with other devices wirelessly. The R520m also had an infrared port, which was used to transfer data between devices such as phones and laptops.
Features and Battery Life
The R520m may have been a feature phone, but it boasted a variety of features that were not commonly found in other phones at the time. Users could send SMS messages and even emails from their R520m devices. The phone also had a WAP 1.2 browser, giving users access to basic internet services. It also came equipped with a clock, alarm, and calculator. One unique feature of the R520m was its predictive text input, voice dialing, answering, and memo capabilities. The phone also had a speaker with a proximity switch, which would automatically adjust the volume based on the phone's distance from the user's ear.
The R520m's battery life was also impressive, with a removable NiMH battery that could last up to 200 hours on standby and 7 hours and 30 minutes of talk time. This capability made the R520m a reliable and long-lasting device for users on the go.
Discontinuation
Despite its success, the R520m's reign was short-lived as it was discontinued soon after its release. The reasons behind this are unclear; however, it is speculated that it was due to production costs and the introduction of newer and more advanced mobile phones. But, the R520m will always hold a special place in the history of mobile phones due to its significant impact on the industry and its advanced features.
In conclusion, the Ericsson R520m was a ground-breaking feature phone that paved the way for future mobile phones. Its compact design, advanced features, and impressive battery life made it a popular device during its time. Although it may seem obsolete now, it will always be remembered as a unique and innovative device that set the bar high for future mobile phones.
Ericsson R520m Full Specifications
Network
Technology
GSM
2G bands
GSM 900 / 1800 / 1900
GPRS
Yes
EDGE
No
Launch
Announced
Q2 2001 ?
Status
Discontinued
Body
Dimensions
130 x 50 x 16 mm (5.12 x 1.97 x 0.63 in)
Weight
105 g (3.70 oz)
SIM
Mini-SIM
Display
Type
Monochrome graphic
Size
Resolution
5 lines
Memory
Card slot
No
Phonebook
500+
Call records
Camera
Other
No
Sound
Loudspeaker
No
Alert types
Vibration; Downloadable monophonic ringtones
3.5mm jack
No
Comms
WLAN
No
Bluetooth
1.0b
Positioning
No
Infrared port
Yes
Radio
No
USB
Features
Sensors
Messaging
SMS, Email
Browser
WAP 1.2
Clock
Yes
Alarm
Yes
Games
Java
No
Other
Predictive text input
Code memo
Voice dial
Voice answer
Voice memo
Calculator
Speaker with proximity switch