A Closer Look at the Samsung W299 Duos: Released 2009
In 2009, Samsung unveiled a new addition to their lineup of feature phones - the W299 Duos. This dual SIM device offered consumers the convenience of using two SIM cards on one device, making it a popular choice for those who wanted to easily switch between phone numbers or network providers.
Dual SIM Functionality and Network Compatibility
One of the key features of the W299 Duos was its dual SIM functionality. This meant that users could have two separate SIM cards inserted into the device, making it ideal for those who needed to balance work and personal contacts, or for those who frequently traveled and needed to use local SIM cards.
Additionally, the W299 Duos offered compatibility with both GSM and CDMA networks, making it a versatile option for different regions and countries.
Slim Design and Display
The W299 Duos had a sleek and slim design, weighing in at just 114g and measuring 15.9mm in thickness. It also featured a 2.2 inch TFT display with 16 million colors, offering users a bright and vibrant viewing experience. The screen had a resolution of 240 x 320 pixels with a 4:3 ratio, resulting in a pixel density of 182 ppi.
Storage and Memory
The device came with 38MB of internal storage, which could be expanded using the dedicated microSD slot. It also had a phonebook that could hold up to 1000 entries, as well as the ability to store call records.
Camera and Multimedia Features
The W299 Duos had a 2MP rear camera, allowing users to capture their favorite moments on the go. It was also capable of recording videos. However, this device did not have a front-facing camera for selfies or video calls.
In terms of multimedia features, the W299 Duos had a loudspeaker and the ability to play MP3 and MP4 files. It also had a built-in document viewer for various file types such as Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and PDF. Additionally, it had a voice memo feature for quick note-taking.
Connectivity and Battery Life
The W299 Duos offered Bluetooth 2.0 and USB 2.0 connectivity options, but did not have Wi-Fi or GPS capabilities. It also had a stereo FM radio with RDS for those who enjoyed listening to music or keeping up with the latest news updates on the go.
This device was powered by a 1140 mAh removable Li-Ion battery, which provided decent battery life for its time.
Availability and Price
The Samsung W299 Duos was announced and released in 2009. It has since been discontinued, but it was available in black and was priced at approximately 80 EUR.
Final Thoughts
The Samsung W299 Duos may be an old device, but it offered a range of features that made it a popular choice in its time. Its dual SIM functionality and slim design were particularly noteworthy, making it a practical and convenient option for many users. Although it may not be suitable for today's smartphone-driven society, it remains a testament to Samsung's ability to innovate and meet the evolving needs of their consumers.
