Display:176 x 240 pixels, 4:3 ratio (~135 ppi density)
Camera:CIF
Battery:
Released:Released 2003, Q4
The Revolutionary NEC e616: A Device Ahead of Its Time
In 2003, the technology world was introduced to a groundbreaking device, the NEC e616. With its advanced features and impressive design, it quickly became a fan-favorite among phone enthusiasts. So let's take a deep dive into this device and explore what made it so revolutionary.
Design and Dimensions
NEC e616, weighing only 130g, was considered one of the lightest phones of its time. Its thickness of 26mm gave the users a comfortable grip and convenient handling. The device had a compact size of 103 x 53 x 26 mm, making it extremely portable. Its sleek design and silver color added to its charm, making it a must-have for many.
Display and Features
The NEC e616 featured a 2.2-inch TFT screen with 65K colors, giving users a vibrant and clear display. The front screen measured 35 x 43 mm, while the external monochrome display was 120 x 30 pixels. This phone introduced customizable wallpapers, downloadable pictures, and animations, providing users with a personal touch on their screens.
But what truly set the NEC e616 apart from other phones of that time was its second external display. This display allowed users to view notifications, battery life, and the date and time without opening the phone. This feature was ahead of its time and foreshadowed the development of the modern-day smartphone.
Memory and Storage
Despite being a feature phone, the NEC e616 boasted impressive memory and storage capabilities. It had an internal storage of 19MB, which may seem minimal compared to today's devices, but it was more than enough for most users. The phone also had a Memory Stick Duo slot, allowing users to expand the storage if needed.
With a phonebook capacity of 500 contacts and a call record history of 20 dialed, received, and missed calls, the NEC e616 was perfect for both personal and professional use.
Camera and Sound
The NEC e616 came equipped with a CIF camera on its rear, along with an LED flash. This feature enabled users to capture clear images, and they could also record videos. While it did not have a front camera, the device had a "selfie" feature, allowing users to take pictures with the primary camera.
In terms of sound, the device may not have had a loudspeaker, but it had downloadable polyphonic ringtones and vibration alerts. Users could also listen to music through its MP3/H.263 player, making the device versatile and appealing to music lovers.
Connectivity and Battery
The NEC e616 supported both 2G and 3G networks, providing users with fast internet speeds. It also featured Bluetooth 1.1, GPS positioning, and a proprietary USB for data transfer. However, it did not have Wi-Fi or radio capabilities.
The device's removable Li-Ion 780 mAh battery had a stand-by time of up to 120h and talk time of up to 1h 50min, making it reliable for daily use.
Conclusion
In a time when smartphones were still in their early stages, the NEC e616 was a remarkable device with advanced features and a futuristic design. Its release in 2003, Q4, marked a turning point in the mobile phone industry and paved the way for more innovative devices to come. Undoubtedly, the NEC e616 holds a special place in history as a device ahead of its time.
NEC e616 Full Specifications
Network
Technology
GSM / UMTS
2G bands
GSM 900 / 1800
3G bands
UMTS 2100
Speed
Yes, 384 kbps
Launch
Announced
2003, Q4
Status
Discontinued
Body
Dimensions
103 x 53 x 26 mm, 120 cc (4.06 x 2.09 x 1.02 in)
Weight
130 g (4.59 oz)
SIM
Mini-SIM
Display
Type
TFT, 65K colors
Size
2.2 inches, 35 x 43 mm, 14.9 cm2 (~27.3% screen-to-body ratio)
Resolution
176 x 240 pixels, 4:3 ratio (~135 ppi density)
Other
Second external monochrome display (120 x 30 pixels)
Wallpapers
Downloadable pictures and animations