The P100: A Feature Phone Ahead of its Time in 2003
In the ever-evolving world of smartphones, it's easy to forget about the older models that paved the way for the advanced technology we have today. The Samsung P100 is one such device, released in 2003 during a time when flip phones were all the rage.
A Pioneer in Technology
The P100, also known as the SGH-P100, was a feature phone that came with a mini-SIM card and a sleek body with dimensions of 93 x 22.5mm. Its slim design, measuring only 89 x 48 x 22.5mm, made it a compact and portable device for its time. The phone was released in the third quarter of 2003 by Samsung, one of the leading brands in the mobile phone industry. It was initially available in three color options: Blue Silver, Metallic Green, and Indigo Blue.
All About the Features
Despite being a feature phone, the P100 boasted impressive features for its time. It ran on a GSM network with 2G bands of 900, 1800, and 1900 and had GPRS class 8 capability. However, it did not have EDGE technology. The phone also came equipped with a 65K color TFD display, a second external monochrome LCD display, and four-way navigation keys.
The P100 had no external storage options, but it did come with a phonebook that could store up to 1000 contacts and contact groups. Additionally, it had message templates and predictive text input to make texting easier and more efficient. You could also play three games on the phone, perfect for passing the time while waiting for a friend.
The Camera and Sound Features
The P100 may have been ahead of its time, but it did not come with a front-facing or selfie camera. It did have a single CIF main camera, perfect for capturing short and low-quality photos and videos.
As for sound features, the P100 was not equipped with a loudspeaker or a standard 3.5mm audio jack. However, you could download polyphonic ringtones and set a vibration alert for incoming calls and messages.
Connectivity Options
In terms of connectivity, the P100 did not have Bluetooth or Wi-Fi capabilities. It also did not have GPS or an infrared port. However, it did come with a USB port that you could use to transfer data to and from a computer.
Long-Lasting Battery and Additional Features
One of the highlights of the P100 was its long-lasting removable Li-Ion 780 mAh battery. It was also equipped with features like an alarm, clock, and organizer functions, making it more than just a communication device. The phone ran on the WAP 1.2 browser, allowing users to access the internet and browse basic websites.
The Legacy of the P100
The P100 may have been discontinued, but its impact on the development of mobile phones cannot be overlooked. This feature phone paved the way for the smartphones we have today, with advanced features such as multiple cameras, high-speed internet, and a wide range of apps.
Although now considered outdated, the P100 will always hold a special place in the history of mobile devices. It was a game-changer in 2003, and its legacy continues to inspire new technology innovations in the present day.
Samsung P100 Full Specifications
Network
Technology
GSM
2G bands
GSM 900 / 1800 / 1900
GPRS
Class 8
EDGE
No
Launch
Announced
2003, Q3
Status
Discontinued
Body
Dimensions
89 x 48 x 22.5 mm (3.50 x 1.89 x 0.89 in)
Weight
93 (3.28 oz)
SIM
Mini-SIM
Display
Type
TFD, 65K colors
Size
Resolution
128 x 160 pixels
Other
Second external monochrome LCD display 96 x 64 pixels
Four way navigation keys