The Philips 650: A Feature Phone That Defined the Early 2000s
The year was 2004, and the technology world was buzzing with excitement as Philips released their latest device - the Philips 650. This compact feature phone quickly gained popularity for its sleek design, user-friendly features, and reliable performance.
A Simple Yet Efficient Design
Weighing only 93g and measuring just 24.5mm in thickness, the Philips 650 was a lightweight and compact device that could easily fit into anyone's pocket. The body of the phone was made from durable materials and had a solid build, making it resistant to wear and tear.
The front of the device featured a STN display with a resolution of 128 x 160 pixels and support for 65K colors. The screen was clear and displayed sharp graphics, making it easy to read messages and view images. Additionally, the phone also had a secondary external monochrome display, allowing users to quickly check notifications and missed calls without having to open the phone.
The device came in three colors - Executive Grey, Discerning Blue, and White Bond, giving users the option to choose the one that best suited their style.
Efficient Storage and Messaging Capabilities
With 7MB of internal storage, the Philips 650 allowed users to store essential files, while also enabling them to download screensavers, wallpapers, and logos. The phonebook could store up to 1000 contacts, with five fields for each contact, including an option for a photo call. Users could also keep track of their call history with the ability to store 30 received, dialed, and missed calls.
In terms of messaging, the phone supported SMS, EMS, MMS, and email, providing users with various options to stay connected with their friends and family. The phone also had predictive text input, making it easier for users to type messages quickly.
Basic Features but Reliable Performance
The Philips 650 may not have had the advanced features of smartphones today, but it provided users with all the necessary basics with reliable performance. It had a removable 1100 mAh battery that could provide up to 720 hours of standby time and 8 hours and 3 minutes of talk time. The phone also had a loudspeaker and vibrating alert, along with support for downloadable polyphonic ringtones.
In addition, the device came with a Java MIDP 2.0, allowing users to download and play games, enhancing their overall user experience.
The End of an Era
The Philips 650 was announced in the second quarter of 2004 but was unfortunately discontinued shortly after. However, its impact on the feature phone market cannot be denied, as it set a standard for compact and efficient devices for years to come.
The device was truly a game-changer, proving that a phone did not have to be bulky and expensive to be practical and reliable. It remains a beloved device for many, representing a significant milestone in the history of mobile phones.
Philips 650 Full Specifications
Network
Technology
GSM
2G bands
GSM 900 / 1800 / 1900
GPRS
Class 10
EDGE
No
Launch
Announced
2004, Q2
Status
Discontinued
Body
Dimensions
88 x 46 x 24.5 mm (3.46 x 1.81 x 0.96 in)
Weight
93 g (3.28 oz)
SIM
Mini-SIM
Display
Type
STN, 65K colors
Size
Resolution
128 x 160 pixels, 7 lines
Other
Second external monochrome display (80 x 48 pixels)
Screensavers and wallpapers
Downloadable logos
Memory
Card slot
No
Phonebook
1000 x 5 fields, Photo call
Call records
30 received, dialed and missed calls
Internal
7MB
Camera
Other
No
Sound
Loudspeaker
Yes
Alert types
Vibration; Downloadable polyphonic ringtones
3.5mm jack
No
Comms
WLAN
No
Bluetooth
No
Positioning
No
Infrared port
Yes
Radio
No
USB
Features
Sensors
Messaging
SMS, EMS, MMS, Email
Browser
WAP 1.2.1
Games
Yes + Java downloadable
Java
Yes, MIDP 2.0
Other
Predictive text input
Organizer
Voice memo/dial
World clock
Optional digital VGA camera and TV-out