The Discontinued MIO 8860: A Flashback to Microsoft Smartphone 2003
The technology world is ever-evolving, with new and improved devices being released at a rapid pace. However, let's take a step back in time and revisit the MIO 8860, a device that was announced in 2004 but unfortunately never made it to the market. Known as the Mitac MIO 8860, this smartphone was set to be a game-changer for its time.
Cancellation Announcement and Release Date
The MIO 8860 was announced in the first quarter of 2004, with a lot of buzz and anticipation surrounding its release. However, sadly, the device was cancelled before it could even hit the shelves. This news disappointed many gadget enthusiasts who were eagerly waiting to get their hands on it. The reason for the cancellation is unknown, but speculation suggests that it may have been due to internal issues within the Mitac company.
Design and Dimensions
The MIO 8860 boasted a sleek and compact design, perfect for one-hand usage. Its dimensions were not publicly announced, but it is speculated to have been similar to other smartphones of that era. Unfortunately, since the device was never released, we can only make assumptions based on its known features and specifications.
Storage and Network
The storage capacity of the MIO 8860 would have included an MMC/SD slot, providing ample space for storing photos, videos, and other media files. In terms of network connectivity, it was capable of operating on GSM 2G bands including 900, 1800, and 1900 frequencies. It also had GPRS Class 10 for mobile internet access.
Display and Platform
The MIO 8860 featured a TFT display with 256K colors, although it was only able to display 65K effectively. The screen size was 2.2 inches, with a resolution of 176 x 220 pixels and a density of approximately 128 pixels per inch (ppi). Additionally, it had a second external display with 65K colors, providing users with the convenience of quick glance notifications. As for its operating system, it ran on Microsoft Smartphone 2003 and housed an Intel XScale 200 MHz processor.
Memory and Camera
The MIO 8860 would have come with expandable memory through its MMC/SD slot, allowing users to store more data on their device. However, disappointingly, it did not feature a front or rear camera, meaning no photo or video capability.
Additional Features
Some other notable features of the MIO 8860 include a WAP browser for mobile internet browsing, an MP3 player for music enthusiasts, and predictive text input for faster messaging. It also had an organizer to help users keep track of their daily tasks.
Battery and Connectivity
The MIO 8860 was rumoured to have a Removable Li-Ion battery, allowing users to easily replace the battery if needed. However, since it was never released, there is no official confirmation of its battery life. In terms of connectivity, it lacked modern features such as Bluetooth, WLAN, and GPS, but it did have an infrared port and a proprietary USB port for data transfer and charging.
The MIO 8860: A Lost Opportunity
The Mitac MIO 8860 could have been a revolutionary device back in 2004, but unfortunately, it never saw the light of day. Its cancellation left many disappointed and curious about what could have been. Even though it never made it to the market, the MIO 8860 will always hold a special place in the history of smartphones and Microsoft's operating system.
