The 1.8" 128 x 160 pixel screen is large enough to be useful, and as it's a TFT display it should be very easy to read. Although this is a very limited resolution compared to most mid-market European phones, the Nokia 1616 doesn't really do anything that would merit a higher resolution display.Like the 1280, the Nokia 1616 has a dust resistant keypad, although the 1616 has a somewhat sleeker look. The phone also comes with a flashlight, an FM radio (although an external headset is required), MP3 grade ringtones, a speakerphone, multiple phonebooks and in some markets it will ship with Nokia Life Tools.
This is a basic Series 30 handset, but the larger colour screen does make it a more enjoyable experience than the 1280. Underneath this is a dual band GSM phone, in either 900/1800 or 850/1900 MHz configurations. The BL-5C battery supplies enough power for up to 8.5 hours talktime and 22 days standby time, and the whole thing comes in at a lightweight 79 grams.
Four euros extra is not a lot to pay for a colour screen, but given the choice you might still want to go for the 1280 over the 1616 because of the 1280's different keypad arrangement.
Nokia say that the 1616 should be available during Q1 2010 with black, blue, gray and red interchangeable covers.
Available:
Q1 2010/
Network:
GSM 900 / 1800 or 850 / 1900
Data:
No
Screen:
1.8" 128 x 160 pixels, 65k colours
Camera:
No
Size:
Lightweight monoblock
107 x 45 x 15mm / 79 grams
Bluetooth:
No
Memory card:
No
Infra-red:
No
Polyphonic:
Yes
Java:
No
GPS:
No
OS:
Series 30
Battery life:
8.5 hours talk / 22 days standby
