Alcatel S850 review
Network and connections
Alcatel offers a simple but functional phone, for users who don't have particular requirements. Network support is a Dualband GSM, which guarantees sufficient signal coverage; UMTS mode is not available, however. As for data traffic, GPRS support allows for good speeds, so you can surf the Web with the WAP browser, in addition to the internal modem. Wireless connectivity is absent, but it's still possible to sync with other devices thanks to the USB 2.0 cable.
Design and features
You immediately notice how handy and comfortable to carry in your pocket this phone is. Its dimensions are indeed compact, with a weight of only 108 grams; the clamshell design, on the other hand, allows it to keep width and height down to 42 and 87 millimeters respectively. On the outer part there is no display at all, just a handy little analog clock. Opening the S850, however, you find the 128x160 pixel screen, capable of displaying up to 256,000 colors. In the lower part, meanwhile, there's the standard keypad with a nice black-and-white checkerboard design.
Main features
An Entry Level phone is by definition a not-too-complex device, offering basic but still good-quality features. That's why the S850 integrates address book management, calendar and alarm clock with customizable melodies, as well as the voice side with good audio quality speakerphone. Alcatel's proprietary platform doesn't allow for major functionality expansion, however Java support lets you install small compatible games and utilities. Support for writing SMS and multimedia messages is also present.
Entertainment and multimedia
This Alcatel model doesn't feature any multimedia player, leaving room for pure essentiality. However, there is a digital camera with 1.3 megapixel resolution, useful in times of need to capture some standout image. The available memory is only 3 MB, though expandable so you can save files without problems. Also interesting are a few simple preinstalled games, useful for filling leisure moments.