H2: The iO - A Revolutionary Device from Benefon
The Benefon iO, released in 1999, was a game-changing device in the world of feature phones. With its compact design and advanced features, it quickly gained popularity among consumers. In this article, we will explore the various aspects of the iO and how it set the standard for future mobile devices.
H3: A Slim and Sleek Design
Weighing just 167g and with a thickness of only 24mm, the iO was one of the lightest and slimmest phones of its time. Its dimensions of 122 x 56 x 24 mm (4.80 x 2.20 x 0.94 in) made it easy to carry around and fit comfortably in one's hand. The phone also had a mini-SIM card slot, which was the standard at the time.
H3: A User-Friendly Display
The iO's display was a monochrome graphic type with a resolution of 6 lines. What made it stand out was its dynamic and user-selectable font size, allowing users to adjust the text according to their preference. It also had the ability to show Cyrillic characters, making it accessible to a wider range of users.
H3: Memory and Storage
Though the iO did not have a memory card slot, it made up for it with its impressive internal memory. The phonebook could store contacts on the SIM card, and the call records could hold up to 15 dialed, 5 received, and 5 missed calls. This was more than enough for a device of its time.
H3: Basic Features with a Twist
The iO did not have a camera or loudspeaker, but it did have a unique feature - a temperature indicator. This was an added bonus, especially for outdoor enthusiasts who needed to keep track of the weather. The phone also had an alarm, clock, and three pre-installed games to keep users entertained.
H3: Connectivity Options
The iO's connectivity options were limited, as it did not have WLAN, Bluetooth, or positioning capabilities. However, it could send and receive SMS messages, which was the standard form of communication back then.
H3: Battery Life and Other Features
The iO came with a removable NiMH 700 mAh battery that provided up to 60 hours of standby time and 5 hours of talk time. This was impressive for a device of its time, and it made it a reliable companion for on-the-go users. The phone also had predictive text input, making it easier to type out messages.
H3: A Discontinued Device
Despite its popularity, the iO was eventually discontinued. This may be due to the advancing technology and the introduction of smartphones. Nevertheless, the iO remains a memorable device in the history of Benefon and the mobile phone industry.
H4: In Conclusion
The Benefon iO was a revolutionary device from Benefon that set the standard for future feature phones. Its compact design, user-friendly display, impressive memory and battery life, and unique features made it stand out among its competitors. Though discontinued, the iO will always hold a special place in the hearts of those who owned and used it.
Benefon iO Full Specifications
Network
Technology
GSM
2G bands
GSM 900
GPRS
No
EDGE
No
Launch
Announced
1999
Status
Discontinued
Body
Dimensions
122 x 56 x 24 mm (4.80 x 2.20 x 0.94 in)
Weight
167 g (5.89 oz)
SIM
Mini-SIM
Display
Type
Monochrome graphic
Size
Resolution
6 lines
Other
Dynamic & user-selectable font size
Cyrillic characters
Memory
Card slot
No
Phonebook
SIM only
Call records
15 dialed, 5 received, 5 missed calls
Camera
Other
No
Sound
Loudspeaker
No
Alert types
Vibration; Monophonic ringtones
3.5mm jack
No
Comms
WLAN
No
Bluetooth
No
Positioning
No
Radio
No
USB
Features
Sensors
Messaging
SMS
Browser
Clock
Yes
Alarm
Yes
Games
3
Java
No
Other
Predictive text input
Organizer
Phone ON/OFF timers
Temperature indicator