Display:480 x 800 pixels, 5:3 ratio (~267 ppi density)
Camera:5 MP, AF
Battery:
Released:Released 2011, April
Kyocera Echo: A Revolutionary Dual-Screen Device
In 2011, Kyocera released an innovative device that had technology enthusiasts buzzing – the Kyocera Echo. With its unique dual-screen design, the Echo stood out in a world of smartphones with single displays.
An Overview of the Kyocera Echo
The Echo was released in April 2011 and weighed 193g with a thickness of 17.2mm. It ran on Android 2.2, with the option to upgrade to 2.3. The device boasted 1GB of internal storage and 512MB of RAM, with the option to expand memory through a microSD card slot.
Unconventional Design and Dimensions
The Echo's standout feature was its two TFT displays, each measuring 3.5 inches and offering a resolution of 480 x 800 pixels. Together, they had a total display size of 4.7 inches diagonally, with a resolution of 800 x 960 pixels when used in tablet mode.
The device also had a "Simul-Task Mode" which allowed users to run two of the Echo's core apps simultaneously on each screen. Additionally, the "Optimized Mode" enabled the dual screens to complement each other, such as using one for email and the other for a virtual keypad. Tablet Mode combined the two screens into a single display, providing a larger viewing experience for videos and gaming.
Impressive Performance
The Echo ran on a 1GHz Qualcomm Snapdragon S1 processor and Adreno 200 GPU, providing smooth and efficient performance. It also had a 5-megapixel rear camera with autofocus, LED flash, and the capability to capture videos in 720p. While it did not have a front-facing camera, the device was marketed as being versatile enough to use in various positions, allowing users to take selfies using the rear camera.
Connectivity and Features
The Echo supported CDMA and EVDO technology and had Wi-Fi and Bluetooth capabilities. It also had GPS and A-GPS for location tracking, but it did not have a radio. The device also had standard features like an accelerometer, proximity sensor, and compass. It supported HTML and Adobe Flash on its browser and was equipped with various media player options.
No Longer in Production
The Kyocera Echo was discontinued, and its production ceased soon after its release. While it may have been ahead of its time, the device paved the way for future smartphones with unique and unconventional designs. Its primary selling point, the dual-screen feature, was later adopted by other manufacturers who saw its potential.
In Conclusion
The Kyocera Echo may no longer be available, but its impact on the mobile industry is undeniable. Its dual-screen design and impressive performance made it stand out from other devices of its time, and it remains a nostalgic part of technological history.
Misc: Prices may vary depending on the seller and country. Some features may require a data plan and may incur additional charges. Please check with your service provider before purchasing.
Simul-Task Mode – choose 2 of the Echos 7 core apps and run one on each display simultaneously
Optimized Mode – apps let the dual displays complement each other, like email on one and a full virtual keypad on the other
Tablet Mode – dual displays act as a single (4.7 inches diagonally, 800 x 960 pixels) display
Platform
OS
Android 2.2 (Froyo), upgradable to 2.3 (Gingerbread)
Chipset
Qualcomm QSD8650 Snapdragon S1
CPU
1.0 GHz Scorpion
GPU
Adreno 200
Memory
Card slot
microSDHC (dedicated slot), 8 GB included
Internal
1GB 512MB RAM
Main Camera
Single
5 MP, AF
Features
LED flash
Video
720p
Selfie camera
Single
Yes
Video
Sound
Loudspeaker
Yes
3.5mm jack
Yes
Comms
WLAN
Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g, hotspot (charges may apply)
Bluetooth
2.1, A2DP, EDR
Positioning
GPS, A-GPS
Radio
No
USB
microUSB 2.0
Features
Sensors
Accelerometer, proximity, compass
Browser
HTML, Adobe Flash
Other
MP3/WAV/AAC+ player
MP4/H.263 player
Organizer
Voice memo
Predictive text input