The GF 788: A Classic Feature Phone Released by Ericsson in 1997
Introduction
In the age of smartphones, it's hard to imagine a time when feature phones dominated the market. But in the late 1990s, these simple devices were the go-to for communication and limited internet access. One notable example is the GF 788, a device that was released in 1997 by the telecommunications giant Ericsson. Let's take a closer look at this classic feature phone and its specifications.
Release Date and Operating System
The GF 788 was released in 1997, making it over two decades old now. Despite its age, it remains a favorite among some nostalgic tech enthusiasts. This device runs on a feature phone operating system, which means it has very basic functions compared to modern smartphones.
Design and Dimensions
Clocking in at 135g with a thickness of 24mm, the GF 788 may seem bulky compared to today's slim and lightweight devices. However, at the time of its release, these dimensions were considered standard. The phone's body measured 105 x 49 x 24 mm, and it had a mini-SIM card slot.
Display and Memory
The display of the GF 788 is definitely a far cry from the high-resolution screens of today's phones. It features an alphanumeric screen with 1 x 10 characters and fixed icons. As for storage, the device does not have a card slot, but it can store up to 99 contacts in its phonebook. It also has limited call records.
Camera and Sound
One feature that the GF 788 lacks is a camera. During its release, cameras on phones were still a rare occurrence. In terms of sound, the device only has monophonic ringtones and a composer. It also doesn't have a loudspeaker or a 3.5mm jack for headphones.
Communication and Features
The GF 788's connectivity options are also very limited. It does not have any wireless capabilities such as Wi-Fi or Bluetooth. It also does not have a positioning system or a built-in radio. However, it does have SMS messaging and a clock and alarm feature. Unfortunately, it doesn't have any pre-installed games, but it does offer customizable menu options.
Battery and Miscellaneous
Powering the GF 788 is a removable NiMH 550 mAh battery, which provides a standby time of 60 hours and a talk time of 180 minutes. The device was available in four colors and offered 19 language options. However, it did not support Java applications.
Conclusion
Despite its basic features, the GF 788 remains a cherished device for many. It represents a simpler time when phones were meant for communication and not much else. The release of this feature phone in 1997 was a significant milestone in the evolution of mobile phones, paving the way for more advanced devices to come. While it may not be able to compete with modern smartphones, the GF 788 will always hold a special place in the hearts of technology enthusiasts.
