The Vertu Constellation 2006: A Luxury Feature Phone Ahead of its Time
In 2006, the luxury phone brand Vertu released their latest device, the Constellation 2006. It was a feature phone that was considered to be one of the most stylish and advanced devices of its time. With its sleek design and high-end features, it quickly became the go-to device for those who valued both function and fashion in their mobile phones.
Release and Operating System
The Constellation 2006 was officially announced and released in October 2006. It was an impressive device with a feature-packed operating system that could compete with many smartphones of that time. The device was equipped with a specialized operating system designed specifically for Vertu phones, making it a unique and exclusive device.
Dimensions and Storage
Weighing just 140g or 160g (depending on the model) and with a thickness of only 15.7mm, the Constellation 2006 was compact and easy to carry around. Its dimensions were 109 x 45 x 15.7 mm, with a capacity of 66 cc. However, unlike most modern phones, this device did not have a card slot for external storage. Instead, users had to rely on the device's internal storage which was still quite limited during that time.
Network and Connectivity
The Vertu Constellation 2006 was a GSM phone, which supported 2G bands of GSM 850, 900, 1800, and 1900. It also had GPRS and EDGE capabilities, ensuring stable and fast internet connection. However, it did not have WLAN or GPS capabilities, meaning users had to rely on other devices for navigation and Wi-Fi connectivity.
Display and Memory
The Constellation 2006 had a TFT display with 256K colors, providing excellent color reproduction and clarity for its time. The screen size and resolution were not available, but it did have scratch-resistant glass for protection. Unfortunately, the device did not have a card slot for additional storage, limiting its memory capacity. It could only store up to 1000 entries in the phonebook, along with 220 calendar notes and 100 SMS messages.
Camera and Sound
Unlike modern devices, the Constellation 2006 did not have a camera, a significant drawback for a luxury phone during that time. However, it had loudspeaker capabilities and could play polyphonic ringtones for its users. It also did not have a 3.5mm jack for external audio devices, so music lovers had to rely on the device's internal audio player.
Features and Battery Life
The device had various features, including messaging capabilities such as SMS, MMS, and email. It also had a WAP browser for internet browsing and supported several languages, making it accessible to a wider market. Additionally, it had games, a predictive text input, and an organizer for daily tasks. Its battery life was also quite impressive, with up to 250 hours of standby time and 5 hours and 30 minutes of talk time.
Design and Colors
The Vertu Constellation 2006 was designed with both style and functionality in mind. It came in a variety of colors, including pink, dark brown, tan, black, and yellow gold, catering to different tastes and preferences. Its elegant design and sturdy build made it a desired accessory for the fashion-conscious individuals.
Price and Availability
The Constellation 2006 was a high-end device with a hefty price tag of around 2800 EUR. It was only available in select markets and had limited production, making it even more exclusive and desirable for those who could afford it.
The Vertu Constellation 2006 was a luxurious and advanced feature phone that set itself apart from other devices of its time. With its unique features, impressive design, and high-end price, it will always be remembered as one of the most iconic devices in the history of luxury phones.
Vertu Constellation 2006 Full Specifications
Network
Technology
GSM
2G bands
GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900
GPRS
Yes
EDGE
Yes
Launch
Announced
2006, October
Status
Discontinued
Body
Dimensions
109 x 45 x 15.7 mm, 66 cc (4.29 x 1.77 x 0.62 in)
Weight
140 g / 160 g (5.29 oz)
SIM
Mini-SIM
Display
Type
TFT, 256K colors
Size
Resolution
Protection
Scratch-resistant glass
Memory
Card slot
No
Phonebook
1000 entries
Call records
Other
220 calendar notes
100 SMS
Camera
Other
No
Sound
Loudspeaker
Yes
Alert types
Vibration; Polyphonic ringtones
3.5mm jack
No
Comms
WLAN
No
Bluetooth
2.0
Positioning
No
Radio
No
USB
2.0
Features
Sensors
Messaging
SMS, MMS, Email
Browser
WAP
Games
Yes
Languages
English, French, Italian, German, Spanish, Chinese
Java
Yes, MIDP 2.0
Other
Audio/video player
Predictive text input
Organizer