Introducing the Motorola W396: A Classic Feature Phone from 2008
Once upon a time, smartphones were not as popular as they are today. In fact, most people relied on simple feature phones to make calls, send messages, and play games. One such device was the Motorola W396, a much-loved phone released by Motorola in 2008.
The Release and Discontinuation of the Motorola W396
The Motorola W396 was announced in August 2008 and was soon released in the same year. It quickly gained popularity due to its sleek design, durable build, and affordable price. However, like all things, its time came to an end, and it was discontinued not long after its launch. But for many, the W396 remains a classic and beloved device.
The Design and Display of the Motorola W396
The Motorola W396 was known for its compact and lightweight design, weighing only 94g with a thickness of 17mm. Its body dimensions were 95 x 45 x 17 mm, making it easy to hold and operate with one hand. The phone also had a 1.8-inch TFT display, which may seem small compared to today's standards, but at the time, it was considered a decent screen size.
Storage and Network Capabilities of the Motorola W396
The W396 had a microSD slot for expandable storage, which was a significant advantage for those looking to store music, photos, and videos on their device. It also featured GSM technology, allowing users to connect to their network and make calls or send messages. However, it did not have GPRS or EDGE capabilities.
Camera and Multimedia Features
The Motorola W396 may not have been known for its camera capabilities, with only a VGA single camera. But it did come with a stereo FM radio and supported different audio formats such as MP3, iMelody, MIDI, and AMR. It also had basic features like a calculator, stopwatch, and predictive text input.
Battery Life and Color Options
The W396 was powered by a removable Li-Ion 940 mAh battery, which could last up to 400 hours on standby and 9 hours of talk time. It was available in two colors: lustrous silver and dark titanium gray. The phone was also SAR-certified, ensuring users' safety from potential harmful radiation.
The Price and Final Verdict
The Motorola W396 was an affordable phone, priced at around 50 EUR. It may not have had all the fancy features of modern smartphones, but it served its purpose well. Its design and performance were highly praised, making it a favorite among users at the time. And even though it may no longer be in production, it will always hold a special place in the hearts of those who used it.
In conclusion, the Motorola W396 may not be a smartphone we see today, but it was a popular and well-loved device in its time. Its simple features, compact design, and durable build make it a classic among feature phones, reminding us of the simpler times when communication was the primary purpose of a phone.
