The Tropical by Icemobile: A Classic Feature Phone Released in 2011
In the fast-paced world of technology, smartphones have become the norm. With their advanced features and capabilities, it's hard to imagine a time when we were content with just basic phone functions. But back in 2011, feature phones were the go-to devices for communication and entertainment. One such device was the Tropical by Icemobile.
The Introduction of the Tropical
The Tropical was released in May 2011 by the company Icemobile. It was a simple yet functional device that catered to those who wanted a reliable phone without all the bells and whistles. At the time, it was praised for its sleek design and user-friendly features.
Basic Specifications
The Tropical may seem outdated now, but back in its day, it was a revolutionary device. Weighing only 81g and with a thickness of 13.5mm, it was a compact and lightweight phone. Its small size made it easy to carry around and fit in your pocket or bag.
The phone had a MicroSD slot for storage, allowing users to expand the memory and store more files and data. It also had a dual SIM feature, making it convenient for those who needed to switch between two networks or phone numbers. The Tropical also had a flashlight, which was a handy addition for emergencies or dark environments.
The Display and Camera
The Tropical had a 1.8-inch TFT display with 65K colors. Although the display was not as vibrant as modern-day smartphones, it was still considered impressive for a feature phone at that time. The screen-to-body ratio was 16.5%, which may seem low, but it was enough for users to see their messages, make calls, and play basic games.
The phone also had a VGA camera, which was a standard feature for feature phones back then. It may not have been the best in terms of quality, but it was enough to capture everyday moments and share them with others.
Additional Features and Battery Life
The Tropical had an 800 mAh removable battery that could last up to 600 hours on standby and 3 hours of talk time. This was considered impressive back in the day, as smartphones needed to be charged more frequently. The phone also had a stereo FM radio, allowing users to listen to their favorite stations on the go. It also had a mini USB port for charging and a dedicated slot for a MicroSD card.
The device also had other features such as a phonebook that could store up to 500 contacts, a messaging option for SMS and MMS, and games for entertainment. It also had a predictive text input feature, making it easier for users to type and send messages.
Discontinuation and Conclusion
The Tropical had a short lifespan as it was discontinued after its release in May 2011. This was due to the rapid advancement and popularity of smartphones. But the Tropical remains a classic device that paved the way for newer and more advanced feature phones today.
Overall, the Tropical by Icemobile may seem outdated now, but it was a beloved device back in 2011. Its simplicity, functionality, and compact design made it a popular choice for many. It may not have all the features of modern smartphones, but it served its purpose in providing a reliable and convenient communication tool for users.