In the fast-paced world of technology, it's easy to forget about older devices that paved the way for the smartphones we use today. However, O2's feature phone, the X4, deserves recognition for its contributions to the mobile phone industry. Despite being released in Q4 of 2004, the X4 remained a popular choice for users looking for a reliable and functional device.
A Compact and User-Friendly Design
The X4 may not have the sleek and modern design of today's smartphones, but it was considered compact and lightweight back in its time. With dimensions of 89.9 x 45.1 x 24mm and weighing only 116g, it was easy to carry around and fit comfortably in one's hand. The phone also sported a mini-SIM card slot, making it compatible with most networks.
Bold Display with Additional Features
One of the X4's standout features was its 2.2-inch TFT display with 256K colors and a resolution of 176 x 220 pixels. For an added touch of convenience, it also had a secondary external display with 4096 colors, perfect for quickly checking the time or incoming notifications.
Additionally, the device allowed for downloadable pictures, a unique feature at the time that helped personalize the user experience. It also boasted a miniSD slot for external storage and had a phonebook capacity of 500 entries with photo call capabilities.
Adequate Camera and Entertainment Options
While the X4 may not have had multiple camera lenses or advanced photography settings like modern phones, it did come with a 1.3 MP main camera and LED flash. Its video recording capabilities also offered users the chance to capture and relive their favorite memories.
As for entertainment, the X4 had an MP3 player, games that could be downloaded, and even a stopwatch. Its WAP 2.0/xHTML browser also allowed for basic internet browsing, perfect for checking emails or searching for information on the go.
Lasting Battery Life
The X4 may not have been designed for heavy usage, but it boasted a reliable and long-lasting battery life. Its removable Li-Ion battery provided up to 180 hours of standby time and up to 3 hours of talk time.
Simple Yet Functional Features
Despite being a feature phone, the X4 did not lack in functionality. It included messaging options for SMS and MMS, along with a built-in organizer that included a calendar, alarm, and even predictive text input for hassle-free typing. Its MIDP 2.0 Java platform also meant users could enjoy some popular games at the time.
Furthermore, the device utilized GSM and UMTS technology, offering users reliable network connectivity and internet speeds of up to 384 kbps.
The X4: A Timeless Device
The X4 may have been discontinued, but it remains a timeless device that showcased O2's commitment to offering its users a functional and user-friendly experience. For those who were lucky enough to own one, the nostalgia of using this feature phone can never be replaced by today's advanced smartphones. The X4 may be a thing of the past, but its impact in the mobile industry will never be forgotten.
O2 X4 Full Specifications
Network
Technology
GSM / UMTS
2G bands
GSM 900 / 1800
3G bands
UMTS 2100
Speed
Yes, 384 kbps
Launch
Announced
2004, Q4
Status
Discontinued
Body
Dimensions
89.9 x 45.1 x 24 mm (3.54 x 1.78 x 0.94 in)
Weight
116 g (4.09 oz)
SIM
Mini-SIM
Display
Type
TFT, 256K colors
Size
Resolution
176 x 220 pixels
Other
Second external 4096 colors display
Downloadable pictures
Memory
Card slot
miniSD, 32 MB included
Phonebook
500 entries, Photo call
Call records
Yes
Main Camera
Single
1.3 MP
Features
LED flash
Video
Yes
Selfie camera
Other
No
Sound
Loudspeaker
No
Alert types
Vibration; Downloadable polyphonic, MP3 ringtones
3.5mm jack
No
Comms
WLAN
No
Bluetooth
No
Positioning
No
Infrared port
Yes
Radio
No
USB
Proprietary
Features
Sensors
Messaging
SMS, MMS
Browser
WAP 2.0/xHTML
Games
Yes + downloadable
Java
Yes, MIDP 2.0
Other
MP3 player
Predictive text input
Organizer
Stopwatch