Samsung A167 review
Network and connections
A common feature of all Samsung devices is certainly the good quality of the technology used. The network receiver is GSM Dualband, able to operate on the 900 and 1800 MHz frequencies. Signal quality is fairly good, even though it suffers from limitations on a worldwide level. As for wireless, it is decidedly lacking, since both the Infrared port and Bluetooth connection are missing. The USB data cable output is also missing. However, it's always possible to browse the Web thanks to the internal modem, with GPRS packet traffic management. The dedicated WAP browser thus allows pages to be displayed.
Design and features
The lines are simple but still well cared for. The body is a clamshell with hinge opening, which reveals inside the standard numeric keypad with a directional pad and function keys. Above, instead, is the screen, a CSTN with a maximum display of 65,000 colors. There is also a secondary screen on the outside, to provide basic information. The dimensions are absolutely compact, precisely to offer greater portability and ease of use. The thickness is in fact 19.8 mm, with a weight of 87.8 grams. The sales package contains the essentials: battery charger, user manual, and earphones.
Main features
From a low-end phone you can't expect high-level operation. However, the basic features are complete and practical to use. Starting with the address book for contacts, or also the agenda to organize one's appointments, the calendar, and the alarm clock. For the voice sector, instead, you can count on the integrated speakerphone, the voice recorder, and support for multiconferencing. Writing messages is convenient thanks to T9, so as to best manage SMS and multimedia messages.
Entertainment and multimedia
Multimedia capabilities are not this device's strong point, since it lacks an mp3 player and AM/FM radio receiver. However, it is possible to manage polyphonic ringtones as desired, which can also be downloaded directly from the Internet. There is, however, a built-in camera, at VGA resolution; it proves handy when needed, even though image quality is not high. The lithium battery also guarantees good autonomy: up to 252 hours in Stand-by. All in all, a basic device offered on the market by the AT&T carrier.