When talking about modern smartphones, we often hear about the latest releases and advanced technology that seems to be constantly evolving. But have you ever stopped to think about the humble beginnings of mobile devices? Let's take a trip down memory lane and talk about one of the early phones that graced the market – the Motorola C261.
The Birth of Motorola C261
Released in 2005, Q3, the Motorola C261 was a feature phone under the brand Motorola. It weighed just 91g and had a thickness of 14.9mm. It was a simple and compact device, perfect for those who wanted a no-fuss and lightweight phone.
A Feature-Loaded Device
The C261 had some impressive features for its time. It had 5MB of internal storage, allowing users to save contacts, messages, and even download wallpapers and screensavers. However, there was no option to expand the storage with a card slot, so users had to manage within the 5MB limit.
A Phone for Connectivity and Communication
In terms of network and connectivity options, the Motorola C261 operated on GSM technology with 2G bands of GSM 900/1800 and GSM 850/1900 (Motorola C257). It also had GPRS Class 8 for internet browsing. However, Bluetooth, WLAN, and positioning features were not available.
Simplistic yet Sufficient
The C261 was equipped with a VGA camera for capturing memories, but it couldn't record videos. Additionally, the phone had a loudspeaker, vibration alert, and downloadable polyphonic ringtones for incoming calls and messages. However, it lacked a traditional 3.5mm headphone jack.
Practical and Dependable
Despite not having all the modern features found in smartphones today, the C261 was still a reliable device for daily use. It had a decent battery life with a removable Li-Ion 820 mAh battery, offering up to 280 hours of standby time and 7.5 hours of talk time. Some other useful features included a currency converter, calculator, and stopwatch.
Affordability at its Best
The Motorola C526 came in an attractive black color and was priced at around 50 EUR, making it a budget-friendly option for those looking for a reliable and practical phone.
The Legacy of C261
After its release, the Motorola C261 gained popularity among users as a reliable and straightforward device that fulfills their basic communication needs. The compact design and features made it a popular choice for people of all ages. Although it has now been discontinued, it left a mark as one of the early phones that contributed to the evolution of mobile devices.
Whether we talk about the latest smartphone or a phone from the past, they all hold a special place in the hearts of their users. And for those who remember using the Motorola C261, it will always be a reminder of simpler times.
Motorola C261 Full Specifications
Network
Technology
GSM
2G bands
GSM 900 / 1800 , GSM 850 / 1900 - Motorola C257
GPRS
Class 8
EDGE
No
Launch
Announced
2005, Q3
Status
Discontinued
Body
Dimensions
109.9 x 49.9 x 14.9 mm, 74 cc (4.33 x 1.96 x 0.59 in)