F99b: The Feature Phone That Revolutionized the Market in 2003
In 2003, Amoi released a new feature phone that took the market by storm - the F99b. Despite its simple design and limited capabilities, this device quickly gained popularity due to its sleek appearance and affordable price tag.
Release and Features
The F99b was announced in 2003 and was later discontinued, but its influence on the feature phone market was undeniable. With a thickness of only 24mm and a weight of 80g, it was one of the slimmest and lightest phones of its time. It boasted a CSTN display with 65K colors and a resolution of 128 x 128 pixels. It also had a second external mono display for easier access to notifications.
Operating System and Storage
The F99b ran on a feature phone operating system, which limited its capabilities compared to modern smartphones. It did not have a card slot for expandable storage, so users were restricted to the 500 phonebook entries and 10 call records that came with the device.
Network and Connectivity
The F99b was a GSM phone with support for 2G bands, specifically GSM 900/1800/1900. It also had GPRS for internet connectivity but lacked advanced features like EDGE. Additionally, the phone did not have WiFi or Bluetooth capabilities and could not connect to the internet or other devices wirelessly.
Camera and Sound
One notable feature that was missing from the F99b was a camera. This was still a time when cameras on phones were not yet a standard feature, so it didn't necessarily affect its popularity. However, the phone did have a variety of polyphonic ringtones and the option to download additional ones, as well as screensavers and wallpapers.
Other Features
Aside from the standard phone functions, the F99b also had some additional features that made it stand out. It had messaging capabilities such as SMS, EMS, MMS, and email, making it a convenient communication device for its time. It also had predictive text input, which was quite advanced at the time and saved users from tedious typing on T9 keyboards.
Battery Life and Miscellaneous
The F99b was powered by a removable Li-Ion 860 mAh battery that provided up to 100 hours of standby time and up to 3 hours of talk time. It came in multiple colors, allowing users to choose from a variety of options to suit their personal style.
The Legacy of the F99b
Despite being discontinued, the F99b left a lasting legacy in the feature phone market. Its affordability and slim design made it a popular choice among users who were looking for a reliable and stylish phone without breaking the bank. Its influence can still be seen in feature phones today, proving that the F99b truly was ahead of its time.
If you're lucky enough to come across an F99b, consider adding it to your collection as a piece of technological history. As for Amoi, the brand may no longer be in the smartphone market, but they will always be remembered for their revolutionary feature phone, the F99b.
