The A55: A Compact and Versatile Feature Phone from Siemens
The A55, released in 2003 by the well-known technology brand Siemens, was a feature phone designed to cater to the needs of users who were looking for a reliable and functional device. With its compact design and versatile features, the A55 quickly gained popularity among consumers. Let's take a closer look at what this device had to offer.
Release Date and Specifications
The A55 was first released in Q1 of 2003 and was known for its slim dimensions, weighing only 84g and measuring 21mm in thickness. This made it easy to carry around, making it a convenient option for people on-the-go.
In terms of storage capacity, the A55 offered 120 KB of internal storage with no card slot, which meant that users had to rely solely on the internal storage for their files and documents. Despite this limitation, the A55 still managed to fulfill the needs of its users.
Network and Technology
The A55 was a GSM device, meaning it operated on the Global System for Mobile Communications network. It supported 2G bands, specifically GSM 900 / 1800 and GSM 900 / 1900 for the Siemens A56 model. One drawback of the A55 was the lack of GPRS and EDGE capabilities, but this did not stop users from utilizing the device to its fullest potential.
Launch and Status
The A55 was announced in 2003, Q1 and remained in production for some time before eventually being discontinued. During its release, it was popular among users due to its compact size, aesthetic appeal, and user-friendly interface.
Body and Display
The A55 had dimensions of 101 x 44 x 21 mm, with a weight of 84g. Its screen was a monochrome graphic display that measured 101 x 64 pixels and could support up to 5 lines of text. The device also came with softkeys for easier navigation and had the added feature of downloadable logos and screensavers to personalize the phone.
Memory and Camera
The A55 did not have a memory card slot, but it did offer 120 KB of internal storage. This allowed users to store their contacts, messages, and even play games. However, it only had space for 50 entries in the phone book and 25 short messages, with an added bonus of 9 pre-loaded SMS templates. Unlike modern devices, the A55 did not come with a camera, which was quite understandable for its time.
Sound and Features
The A55 featured a loudspeaker and vibration capability, along with the option to download polyphonic ringtones. It also had a built-in alarm and clock, making it a handy device for timekeeping on-the-go. The A55 also came equipped with four pre-installed games - StackAttack, Balloon Shooter, Wacko, and Move the Box - providing entertainment for its users.
Battery and Other Features
The A55 was powered by a removable Li-Ion 700 mAh battery that provided up to 250 hours of standby time and up to 2 hours of talk time. It also had exchangeable Clip-it covers that allowed users to switch up the appearance of their device according to their style.
In Conclusion
The Siemens A55 may not be as technologically advanced as modern devices, but it was ahead of its time when it was released in 2003. Its compact size, reliable performance, and versatile features made it a popular choice among mobile phone users. 18 years later, the A55 may be considered outdated, but its legacy will always be remembered by those who used and appreciated this feature phone from Siemens.
Siemens A55 Full Specifications
Network
Technology
GSM
2G bands
GSM 900 / 1800 , GSM 900 / 1900 - Siemens A56
GPRS
No
EDGE
No
Launch
Announced
2003, Q1
Status
Discontinued
Body
Dimensions
101 x 44 x 21 mm, 84 cc (3.98 x 1.73 x 0.83 in)
Weight
84 g (2.96 oz)
SIM
Mini-SIM
Display
Type
Monochrome graphic
Size
Resolution
101 x 64 pixels, 5 lines
Other
Softkeys
Downloadable logos and screensaver
Memory
Card slot
No
Phonebook
50 entries, 4 contact groups
Call records
10 dialed, 10 received, 10 missed calls
Internal
120 KB
Other
25 short messages
9 SMS templates
Camera
Other
No
Sound
Loudspeaker
Yes
Alert types
Vibration; Downloadable polyphonic ringtones
3.5mm jack
No
Comms
WLAN
No
Bluetooth
No
Positioning
No
Radio
No
USB
Features
Sensors
Messaging
SMS, EMS
Browser
WAP 1.2.1
Clock
Yes
Alarm
Yes
Games
4 - StackAttack, Balloon Shooter, Wacko, Move the Box
Java
No
Other
Predictive text input
Calculator
Currency converter
Exchangeable Clip-it covers