In 2007, Motorola released the W490, a feature phone that quickly became popular due to its compact size and affordable price. Despite being discontinued, the W490 left a lasting legacy with its impressive features and sleek design.
The Birth of the W490
Motorola announced the W490 in September of 2007, with its official release in October of the same year. The device weighed only 107g and had a thickness of 17.3mm, making it one of the thinnest and lightest phones at the time. It was available in three colors - black, purple, and green - catering to different styles and preferences.
A Feature-Loaded Device
The W490 may have been a feature phone, but it was packed with many exciting specifications. It operated on the GSM network, with bands for 2G connectivity on GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900. It also had GPRS Class 10 capabilities, allowing users to easily access the internet on the go.
When it came to storage, the W490 had 5MB of internal storage, enough to hold a few important files and messages. For those needing more space, it also had a dedicated microSD slot for expandable storage. With a maximum capacity of up to 1000 entries, the phonebook was handy for those with many contacts.
A Camera Worth Remembering
The W490 boasted a 1.3-megapixel main camera, capable of capturing clear photos and even recording videos. While it didn't have a selfie camera, it made up for it with its screensavers, wallpapers, and downloadable logos, allowing users to personalize their device further.
Entertainment and More
In addition to its camera features, the W490 also had a music player, allowing users to listen to MP3, AAC, and AAC+ files on the go. It also had predictive text input, helping users type messages and emails more efficiently. The device also came with pre-installed games for entertainment purposes.
A Durable Battery Life
The W490 was powered by a removable Li-Ion battery that could last up to 7 hours and 30 minutes of talk time and up to 350 hours on standby. This meant users didn't have to constantly charge their devices, making it an ideal choice for long trips.
Affordability and Accessibility
The W490 was priced at around 50 EUR, making it an affordable and accessible option for many people. Its features and specifications far outweighed its price, making it a popular choice among consumers.
The End of an Era
The W490 may have been discontinued, but its legacy continues to live on. Its compact design, impressive features, and affordability made it a device that many people still remember fondly to this day. Although smartphones have taken over, the W490 remains a testament to Motorola's innovation and excellence in the feature phone era.
