In 2003, Sharp released the GX10i, a simple feature phone that quickly became a popular choice among mobile phone users. Though it may not have all the bells and whistles of today's smartphones, the GX10i's compact design and straightforward features make it a classic device worth remembering.
The Release of the GX10i
Sharp announced the release of the GX10i in May 2003, making it available to customers worldwide. Despite being a relatively small Japanese company at the time, Sharp found great success with this phone, selling millions of units over the years.
Design and Dimensions
The GX10i boasts a slim and lightweight design, weighing only 110g with a thickness of 27mm. Its dimensions, measuring at 94 x 49 x 27 mm (3.70 x 1.93 x 1.06 in), make it easy to hold and carry around. It also features a mini-SIM card slot, typical for phones of its time.
Display and Navigation
The GX10i has a TFT display with 65K colors and a resolution of 120 x 160 pixels in a 4:3 ratio. Additionally, it has a second external monochrome display with one line for icons and four-way navigation. The phone's wallpapers can be customized according to the user's preference.
Memory and Camera Features
Unlike most modern devices, the GX10i does not have a card slot for expanding its storage capacity. However, it has a significant built-in memory of 700KB for pictures, a phonebook that can hold 200 contacts with 6 fields each, and a capacity for 20 short messages and 100 calendar entries. It also has a CIF camera, allowing users to take decent quality photos and record up to 10 seconds of voice memos.
Other Features
The GX10i is equipped with various features that provide convenience and entertainment, such as predictive text input for easier messaging, an alarm clock, and games like PK Game, Collection Hunter, and Ice Hockey. It also has Java support, allowing users to download and play additional games or apps.
Battery Life and Other Miscellanea
The GX10i is powered by a removable Li-Ion 720 mAh battery, providing up to 3 hours and 30 minutes of talk time and up to 250 hours of standby time. It can also be charged using a USB cable. Unfortunately, it does not have a 3.5mm jack for headphones but does offer the option of using a composer for polyphonic ringtones.
In conclusion, the GX10i may not be the most sophisticated mobile phone on the market, but it has proven its worth as a reliable and user-friendly device. Its compact design, decent features, and long-lasting battery make it a classic among feature phones and a part of Sharp's successful line of mobile devices.
Sharp GX10i Full Specifications
Network
Technology
GSM
2G bands
GSM 900 / 1800 / 1900
GPRS
Class 10
EDGE
No
Launch
Announced
2003, May
Status
Discontinued
Body
Dimensions
94 x 49 x 27 mm (3.70 x 1.93 x 1.06 in)
Weight
110 g (3.88 oz)
SIM
Mini-SIM
Display
Type
TFT, 65K colors
Size
Resolution
120 x 160 pixels, 4:3 ratio
Other
Second external display, monochrome, 1 line + icons
Four-way navigation
Wallpapers
Memory
Card slot
No
Phonebook
200 x 6 fields, contact groups, Photo call
Call records
10 dialed, 10 received, 10 missed calls
Other
700 KB memory for pictures
100 calendar entries
20 short messages
10 sec per voice memo record