The i-mate Smartphone: A Breakthrough in Mobile Technology
The i-mate Smartphone was first released in 2004, making it one of the earliest smartphones on the market. Despite being quite dated by today's standards, this device from i-mate was a game-changer in the mobile industry and set the foundation for modern smartphones we use today.
Release and Operating System
The i-mate Smartphone was released in the first quarter of 2004, and it ran on the Microsoft Windows Mobile operating system. This was one of the first devices to use this operating system, which was designed specifically for mobile devices. It provided users with a familiar interface similar to that of a computer, making it easy to navigate and use.
The dimensions of the i-mate Smartphone were 130g in weight and 23.5mm in thickness, making it fairly compact and lightweight for a smartphone at that time. It also had a storage capacity of 16MB RAM, with the option to expand using an SD/SDIO slot. This allowed users to store more data and install additional applications on their device.
Network and Launch
The i-mate Smartphone used GSM technology and supported 2G bands of GSM 900, 1800, and 1900. It also had GPRS capability and was announced in 2004. However, it is now considered a discontinued device.
Display and Platform
This smartphone had a TFT display with 65K colors, giving users a clear and vibrant viewing experience. The screen size was 2.2 inches, with a resolution of 176 x 220 pixels. It also had a white LED back light and a 5-way navigation button, allowing for easy navigation and access to various features.
The i-mate Smartphone ran on the Microsoft Windows Mobile platform and had a CPU speed of 120 MHz. It also had an internal memory of 16MB RAM and 32MB ROM, providing users with enough storage space for their data.
Camera and Sound
Unfortunately, the i-mate Smartphone did not come with a camera. However, it did have a loudspeaker, vibrational alerts, and the ability to download polyphonic and MP3 ringtones. The lack of a 3.5mm jack was a common feature in smartphones at that time.
Connectivity and Features
The i-mate Smartphone did not have Wi-Fi or Bluetooth connectivity. It also did not have any positioning or radio capabilities. However, it did have an infrared port and a proprietary USB connector for data transfer.
Some notable features of this device included sensors, an HTML browser (PocketIE), and support for 7 languages. It also had an organizer function and predictive text input, making it easier for users to manage their tasks and communicate with others.
Battery and Miscellaneous
The i-mate Smartphone came with a removable Li-Ion battery, which could provide up to 90 hours of standby time and 6 hours of talk time. It also did not have any specific color options, leaving it as a simple, yet functional device for its users.
Conclusion
The i-mate Smartphone may seem like a basic device compared to today's advanced smartphones. However, it laid the groundwork for the development of mobile technology and paved the way for the smartphones we use in our daily lives. It was a revolutionary device that changed the game and will always hold a special place in the history of smartphones.
i-mate Smartphone Full Specifications
Network
Technology
GSM
2G bands
GSM 900 / 1800 / 1900
GPRS
Class 8
EDGE
No
Launch
Announced
2004, Q1
Status
Discontinued
Body
Dimensions
120 x 50 x 23.5 mm, 105 cc (4.72 x 1.97 x 0.93 in)
Weight
130 g (4.59 oz)
SIM
Mini-SIM
Display
Type
TFT, 65K colors
Size
2.2 inches, 35 x 44 mm, 15.2 cm2 (~25.4% screen-to-body ratio)
Resolution
176 x 220 pixels (~128 ppi density)
Other
White LED back light
5-way navigation button
Downloadable logos