In the fast-paced world of technology, it's easy to forget about the devices that paved the way for the smartphones we use today. One of these devices was the LG U8138, released in 2004. While it may seem ancient compared to our modern devices, the U8138 was a popular feature phone at its time and had many impressive features for its era.
Design and Dimensions
Weighing in at 126g and measuring 22.4mm in thickness, the U8138 may seem bulky compared to our slim devices today. This is because it was a feature phone, meaning it did not have all the capabilities of a smartphone. However, its compact design made it easy to carry around. The device also had a Mini-SIM slot, a standard for phones during that time.
Display and Interface
The LG U8138 had a TFT display with 256K colors, which was impressive for a feature phone at that time. It also had a second external display with 65K colors, allowing users to easily view notifications and incoming calls. The phone had four-way navigation keys and the ability to customize wallpapers, displaying up to seven lines of text.
Memory and Camera
With only 32MB of internal storage and no card slot, the U8138 may seem limited in terms of memory. However, it was able to store up to 500 entries in the phonebook and up to 20 call records. The device also featured a VGA swivel camera and could record videos in QCIF resolution.
Connectivity and Features
The U8138 may seem very different from our current devices in terms of connectivity. It did not have Wi-Fi or Bluetooth capabilities and relied solely on infrared technology for data transfer. The U8138 also had a WAP browser, allowing users to access basic web pages. It also had fun features like games, MP3/MP4 playback, and an organizer.
Battery Life and Colors
The LG U8138 ran on a removable Li-Ion 1000 mAh battery, lasting up to 120 hours on standby and 2 hours of talk time. While this may seem short compared to our modern devices, it was impressive for a feature phone back in 2004. The device was available in two colors: silver and blue.
Conclusion
While the LG U8138 may seem outdated and limited compared to our current devices, it was a game-changer during its time. It had impressive features that set it apart from other feature phones of its era. The U8138 may be discontinued now, but it will always hold a special place in the history of mobile devices.
LG U8138 Full Specifications
Network
Technology
GSM / UMTS
2G bands
GSM 900 / 1800
3G bands
UMTS 2100
Speed
Yes, 384 kbps
Launch
Announced
2004, Q3
Status
Discontinued
Body
Dimensions
95.7 x 49.5 x 22.4 mm (3.77 x 1.95 x 0.88 in)
Weight
126 g (4.44 oz)
SIM
Mini-SIM
Display
Type
TFT, 256K colors
Size
Resolution
176 x 220 pixels, 7 lines
Other
Second external 65K colors display, 110 x 88 pixels
Four way navigation keys
Wallpapers