Introducing the CMD MZ5 by Sony: A Feature Phone That Stood the Test of Time
Sony, a household name in the world of technology, released the CMD MZ5 feature phone in May 2001. This sleek and compact device quickly captured the hearts of many with its advanced features and compact design. Let's take a closer look at this device that changed the game in the early 2000s.
The Dimensions and Storage of the CMD MZ5
Weighing only 110g and measuring 30mm in thickness, the CMD MZ5 was a lightweight and portable device that could easily fit into your pocket. Its compact design made it a favorite among those who were always on-the-go. However, the device did not come with a card slot for external storage. This meant that users had to rely solely on the internal storage of the device, which was a minor setback for some.
The Technology and Network of the CMD MZ5
The CMD MZ5 was released in a time when the 2G network was widely used, and the device was compatible with the GSM 900/1800 bands. However, it did not have GPRS or EDGE connectivity, making it unable to access the internet. Despite this, the device still had some impressive features that made it a hit among consumers.
The Display and Memory of the CMD MZ5
The CMD MZ5 featured a grayscale graphic display with 4 shades, an advanced jog dial, and a resolution of 96 x 72 pixels. Although not as advanced as the displays we have today, it was a significant improvement from previous feature phones. As for the memory, the device did not come with a card slot, but it had a 64MB MagicGate Memory Stick that could store music, files, and even fax and email for phonebook entries. Speaking of the phonebook, users could create different groups and templates for their contacts, making it easier to organize and manage their information.
The Camera and Sound of the CMD MZ5
Unlike modern smartphones, the CMD MZ5 did not come with a camera and had no loudspeaker. It only had vibration alerts and monophonic ringtones. However, users had the option to assign different ringtones to their contacts, adding a personal touch to their device.
The Communication and Features of the CMD MZ5
The CMD MZ5 was not equipped with current communication technologies such as WLAN, Bluetooth, or GPS. It also did not have a radio feature. However, it came with SMS and email capabilities, along with WAP and HTML browsing options. Users could also enjoy playing four in-built games, including Sport Fishing, Disc Golf, Clay Shooting, and Mole Hitting. The device also had an MP3 player, predictive text input, and could act as an answering machine.
The Battery Life of the CMD MZ5
The CMD MZ5 had a removable Li-Ion 620 mAh battery that could last up to 150 hours on standby mode and 220 minutes of talk time. Although not impressive compared to modern devices, it was considered decent for its time.
Conclusion
Despite being released almost two decades ago, the CMD MZ5 by Sony remains a classic and popular feature phone among collectors and technology enthusiasts. Its compact design, advanced features, and decent battery life were some of the main factors that contributed to its success. The CMD MZ5 truly stood the test of time and will always be remembered as a game-changer in the world of feature phones.
Sony CMD MZ5 Full Specifications
Network
Technology
GSM
2G bands
GSM 900 / 1800
GPRS
No
EDGE
No
Launch
Announced
May 2001
Status
Discontinued
Body
Dimensions
90 x 49 x 30 mm, 100 cc (3.54 x 1.93 x 1.18 in)
Weight
110 g (3.88 oz)
SIM
Mini-SIM
Display
Type
Grayscale graphic, 4 shades
Size
Resolution
96 x 72 pixels, 5 lines, 4:3 ratio
Other
Advanced Jog Dial
Memory
Card slot
No
Phonebook
500
Call records
Other
64MB MagicGate Memory Stick
Can store music and files
Keeps fax and email for phonebook entries
Message templates
Several phonebook groups
Camera
Other
No
Sound
Loudspeaker
No
Alert types
Vibration; Monophonic ringtones
3.5mm jack
No
Other
Ringtones can be assigned to phonebook entries
Comms
WLAN
No
Bluetooth
No
Positioning
No
Radio
No
USB
Features
Sensors
Messaging
SMS, Email
Browser
WAP, HTML
Clock
Yes
Alarm
Yes
Games
4 - Sport Fishing, Disc Golf, Clay Shooting, Mole Hitting
Java
No
Other
MP3 player
Predictive text input
Organizer
Answering machine