The Sendo D800: A Feature Phone Ahead of Its Time
In the year 2000, when smartphones were still a distant dream, Sendo released its latest device, the D800. While it may not have been as advanced as the phones we have today, it was definitely considered a game-changer in its own time. Let's take a closer look at what made the D800 stand out from other feature phones of its era.
The Brand and Release Date
Sendo, a British mobile phone manufacturer, may not be a household name today but during the early 2000s, they were making waves with their innovative devices. The D800 was released in the year 2000, making it one of the earliest feature phones in the market. At a time when flip phones and monochrome screens were the norm, the D800 boasted impressive features and design that set it apart from its competitors.
The Operating System and Network
The D800 ran on a feature phone operating system, which allowed users to make calls, send text messages, and even play basic games. It also supported GSM technology and 2G bands, specifically GSM 900 and 1800. While it may not seem like much now, it was a significant achievement back then when landline phones were still widely used and mobile communication was just starting to pick up.
The Design and Display
Weighing only 68g and measuring 19mm in thickness, the D800 was a lightweight and sleek device. It had a small form factor, making it easy to carry around. The phone had a monochrome graphic display with a resolution of 96 x 64 pixels, which was considered high-tech at the time. It also had a unique ice blue backlight, fixed icons, and soft keys, giving it a modern and futuristic look.
The Memory and Camera
One aspect where the D800 may have fallen short was its memory. It did not have a card slot for external storage, which meant users were limited to the phone's internal memory. However, it did have message templates, making it easier and faster to compose and send text messages. The phone also did not have a camera, which may come as a surprise in today's selfie-obsessed world, but back then, cameras on phones were still a novelty.
The Battery and Other Features
The D800 came with a removable Li-Ion battery that provided a decent amount of backup. It also had a range of features such as an organizer, alarm, clock, and four built-in games - FlippIT, Quaddro, Scizzors, and Splash. It did not have sensors, internet connectivity, or Bluetooth, but it did have predictive text input, which was very helpful in composing messages quickly and accurately.
The Verdict
While the Sendo D800 may have been discontinued, it was definitely a device ahead of its time. It set the bar high for feature phones and paved the way for the smartphones we have today. With its impressive design and features, it proved to be a popular choice among users during its release and is still remembered fondly by those who owned it. It may hold only a small place in mobile phone history, but it remains an important one.
