In 2002, Samsung released the S100. This feature phone was ahead of its time and boasted several innovative features that set it apart from other devices. Let us delve deeper into the various aspects of this iconic device.
Design and Display
The Samsung S100 weighed a mere 92g and had a thickness of 23mm, making it extremely lightweight and easy to carry. Its dimensions were 89 x 47 x 23 mm, with a 94cc capacity. The device sported a Mini-SIM and featured a second external display which measured 96 x 64 pixels. The STN display had the capacity to display 65K colors, which was quite impressive for its time. The four-way navigation keys and dynamic font size feature made it easy to navigate through the device.
Network and Launch
The Samsung S100 operated on a GSM network with 2G bands, including GSM 900, 1800, and 1900. It had GPRS Class 8 but did not have EDGE technology. The device was announced in 2002 and was discontinued soon after.
Memory and Storage
One of the downsides of the Samsung S100 was that it did not have a card slot for expandable storage. However, it did come with a phonebook that could store up to 500 entries and had the option for contact groups. It also had call records for 20 dialed, 20 received, and 20 missed calls. The device also incorporated message templates, which allowed users to save time while composing messages.
Camera and Sound
The S100 did not come with a camera, which may seem like a glaring omission in today's era of smartphones. However, back in 2002, cameras on phones were still a relatively new concept. The device did not have a loudspeaker or a 3.5mm jack either, but it did have vibrating alerts and downloadable polyphonic ringtones.
Features and Battery
The Samsung S100 did not have some of the features that we take for granted in today's smartphones, such as Bluetooth or WLAN connectivity. It also did not have sensors or positioning capabilities. However, it did have infrared port technology, which enabled users to transfer files between devices. The phone had basic features like SMS and EMS messaging, along with a WAP 1.2.1 browser. It also came equipped with an alarm clock, games, and Java support. The predictive text input, voice commands and dial, voice memo, organizer, and other features made this device quite versatile. The removable Li-Ion battery provided a standby time of 180 hours and up to 6 hours of talk time.
Conclusion
Though the Samsung S100 may seem primitive by today's standards, it played a significant role in the evolution of feature phones. Its compact design, advanced display, and impressive features made it a popular device among users. The S100 may no longer be in production, but it will always hold a special place in the history of mobile phones.
Samsung S100 Full Specifications
Network
Technology
GSM
2G bands
GSM 900 / 1800 / 1900
GPRS
Class 8
EDGE
No
Launch
Announced
2002
Status
Discontinued
Body
Dimensions
89 x 47 x 23 mm, 94 cc (3.50 x 1.85 x 0.91 in)
Weight
92 g (3.25 oz)
SIM
Mini-SIM
Display
Type
STN, 65K colors
Size
Resolution
128 x 160 pixels
Other
Second external display 96 x 64 pixels
Four way navigation keys
Dynamic font size