Released in early 2004, the M342i by Mitsubishi was a feature phone that quickly captured the hearts of users with its sleek design and impressive features. Let's take a trip down memory lane and explore what this device had to offer.
The Specs and Design
Measuring at 99mm thick, the M342i was a modern-looking device with a solid build. Its compact size made it convenient to carry around, while its weight of only 99 grams added to its portability. The device was equipped with a 5MB internal storage, providing enough space for basic files and data. However, there was no option for expandable storage, which restricted users from storing large amounts of data.
Network and Operating System
The M342i was a GSM device, meaning it supported 2G bands of GSM 900/1800 and provided users with reliable network connectivity. However, this device did not have GPRS or EDGE, which limited its capabilities for internet browsing. Despite this limitation, it was considered to have a decent network performance during its time. As for its operating system, the M342i ran on a feature phone technology, making it a simple yet functional device for basic communication needs.
Display and Camera
The M342i featured a TFT display with 256K colors, which was quite advanced for its time. It had a resolution of 128 x 160 pixels, providing users with a clear and vibrant display. One of its unique features was the ability to download logos, giving users the option to customize their device. The phone also had a VGA camera on its rear, allowing users to capture photos of decent quality.
Entertainment and Features
The M342i had limited entertainment options, with no built-in games or radio. However, it did allow users to download games, making it a bit more versatile in terms of entertainment. The device also had sensors and features such as voice memo, organizer, and photo editor. It also had predictive text input, making typing messages quick and easy.
Battery Life and Other Features
The removable Li-Ion battery on the M342i provided up to 380 hours of standby time and 5 hours of talk time. This was considered impressive during its time, as most devices had shorter battery life. The phone also had a Mini-SIM card slot and an infrared port for data transfer, but no WLAN or Bluetooth options were available.
Closing Thoughts
The M342i was a feature phone that stood out for its sleek design, decent performance, and unique features. It was convenient for basic communication needs and offered a few entertainment options. Although discontinued now, it has left a lasting impression on the mobile phone industry, with its compact design and impressive features, setting the standards for future devices.
