The Samsung X530: A Feature Phone That Redefined Simplicity and Affordability
The Samsung X530, released in October 2006, was a game-changer in the feature phone market. This simple yet efficient device quickly gained popularity for its compact design, user-friendly features, and affordable price. Let's take a closer look at what made the Samsung X530 stand out from other feature phones from that era.
Design and Dimensions
The Samsung X530 was designed with simplicity in mind. It weighed only 79g and had a thickness of 18mm, making it one of the slimmest and lightest feature phones at the time. Its compact dimensions of 95 x 45 x 18 mm also made it easy to carry around in pockets or bags.
Display and Camera
The X530 featured a 1.9-inch TFT display with 65K colors, providing a decent viewing experience for its users. While the screen-to-body ratio may seem low by today's standards, it was considered satisfactory back in 2006. The device also came equipped with a VGA camera, which may not seem like much now, but it was a significant feature for a phone of its time.
Storage and Memory
One of the drawbacks of the Samsung X530 was its lack of a card slot for external storage. However, it did offer 700 KB for MMS, 500 KB for Java, and 600 KB for sounds and images, which was enough for storing basic multimedia files. The phone also had enough internal storage to store 1000 phonebook entries, 20 dialed, 20 received, and 20 missed calls, along with 100 short messages.
Connectivity and Features
The X530 was a GSM phone with 2G bands, GPRS Class 10, and an Infrared port for quick data transfer. It also had Bluetooth, enabling users to connect their devices wirelessly. The feature phone had a built-in MP3/AAC/AAC+ player, predictive text input, and an organizer, making it efficient for daily use. Additionally, the phone also came with games and Java support, providing entertainment options for its users.
Battery and Price
The Samsung X530 was powered by a removable Li-Ion 750 mAh battery, providing up to 250 hours of standby time and 3.5 hours of talk time. This feature made it a reliable device for users who were always on the go. As for its price, the X530 retailed at around 80 EUR, making it an affordable option for those looking for a basic phone.
Conclusion
The Samsung X530 may not have been a revolutionary device, but it definitely left a mark in the feature phone market. Its compact design, user-friendly features, and affordable price made it a popular choice among consumers. Even today, it is remembered as a phone that redefined simplicity and affordability in the mobile industry.
Samsung X530 Full Specifications
Network
Technology
GSM
2G bands
GSM 900 / 1800 / 1900
GPRS
Class 10
EDGE
No
Launch
Announced
2006, October
Status
Discontinued
Body
Dimensions
95 x 45 x 18 mm (3.74 x 1.77 x 0.71 in)
Weight
79 g (2.79 oz)
SIM
Mini-SIM
Display
Type
TFT, 65K colors
Size
1.9 inches, 30 x 38 mm, 11.4 cm2 (~26.6% screen-to-body ratio)
Resolution
128 x 160 pixels (~108 ppi density)
Memory
Card slot
No
Phonebook
1000 entries, Photocall
Call records
20 dialed, 20 received, 20 missed calls
Other
100 short messages
700 KB for MMS
500 KB for Java
600 KB for sounds and images
Main Camera
Single
VGA
Video
No
Selfie 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
Proprietary
Features
Sensors
Messaging
SMS, EMS, MMS
Browser
WAP 1.2
Games
Yes
Java
Yes, MIDP 2.0
Other
MP3/AAC/AAC+ player
Predictive text input
Organizer
Voice memo