Samsung D508 Features and Specifications Explained

Samsung SGH-D508

Basic Overview

The Samsung SGH-D508 (commonly abbreviated as Samsung D508) is a clamshell (flip) feature phone released by Samsung Electronics in 2005. Positioned as a mid-range multimedia-focused device, it gained widespread popularity for its sleek design, compact form factor, and balanced set of features for its era. Targeted at mainstream users seeking a blend of communication, entertainment, and basic productivity functions, the D508 became one of Samsung’s best-selling flip phones globally, particularly in Asian and European markets. It marked a key milestone in Samsung’s push to compete with Nokia and Motorola in the mid-2000s feature phone segment, emphasizing style and multimedia capabilities over raw hardware specs.

Key Specifications

Category	Details
Display	1.8-inch TFT LCD internal displayResolution: 176 × 220 pixels, 262,144 (260k) color supportExternal display: 1.0-inch monochrome OLED (128 × 128 pixels) for caller ID, time, and battery statusFeatures: Brightness adjustment, screen saver support
Processor & Memory	Proprietary Samsung mobile processor (optimized for feature phone OS)Internal storage: 80 MB (expandable via TransFlash (microSD) card slot, supporting up to 1 GB cards)No dedicated RAM specification (typical for feature phones of the era)
Cameras	Rear Camera: 1.3-megapixel CMOS sensor, 4× digital zoom, fixed focusVideo recording: QCIF (176 × 144 pixels) resolution at 15 fps, limited recording time based on storage capacityNo front camera (common for feature phones in 2005)
Multimedia Features	Audio: MP3/AAC/AAC+ player with equalizer presets; supports background playback (listen to music while texting)Video: Plays 3GP/MP4 video filesRingtone support: MP3, MIDI, MMF (SMAF) ringtones; polyphonic (64-chord) ringtonesOther: FM radio (requires wired headset as antenna), voice recorder
Battery & Charging	Removable lithium-ion battery (820 mAh capacity)Battery life: Up to 3 hours of talk time, up to 250 hours of standby timeCharging: Proprietary Samsung charging port (no USB-C or Lightning)
Design & Build	Clamshell flip form factor with metallic finish (silver, black color variants)Dimensions: 93 × 45 × 23 mmWeight: 99 gramsKeypad: T9 predictive text input, dedicated multimedia keys (play/pause, skip) on the side
Connectivity	Bluetooth 1.2 (supports file transfer, headset pairing, and dial-up networking)USB 1.1 (for data sync and charging via PC)GSM dual-band (900/1800 MHz) – compatible with 2G networks globallyNo Wi-Fi, 3G, or 4G support (2G-only device)
Software & Features	Proprietary Samsung feature phone OSCore functions: SMS/MMS messaging, contacts (up to 1000 entries), calendar, alarm, calculator, converter, stopwatchProductivity: Basic WAP 2.0 web browser (for mobile sites), email client (POP3/IMAP4)Entertainment: Pre-loaded games (e.g., Bobby Carrot, Arch Angel), downloadable Java ME games and apps
Other Features	Vibration alert, speakerphone, voice dialing (voice recognition for contacts), call forwarding/barringNo touchscreen, fingerprint sensor, or advanced security features

Core Features & Market Highlights

Sleek Clamshell DesignThe Samsung D508’s compact, lightweight build and metallic finish set it apart from bulkier flip phones of its time. The monochrome external OLED display allowed users to check caller IDs without flipping the phone open, a convenient feature for quick notifications. Its slim profile made it easy to carry in pockets or small bags, appealing to style-conscious users.
Expandable Storage & Multimedia CapabilitiesWith 80 MB of internal storage and support for up to 1 GB microSD cards, the D508 addressed a key limitation of earlier feature phones—limited space for music, photos, and videos. The MP3 player with background playback was a standout feature, enabling users to listen to music while sending texts or browsing mobile websites. The 1.3-megapixel camera, though low-resolution by modern standards, was competitive for mid-range phones in 2005 and could capture basic photos and short videos for sharing via MMS.
Bluetooth Connectivity & PC SyncBluetooth 1.2 support allowed wireless pairing with headsets for hands-free calling, a must-have feature for car commuters. The USB 1.1 port enabled syncing contacts and media files with a PC, using Samsung’s proprietary PC Studio software. This connectivity made the D508 a versatile device for both personal and professional use.
Affordable Mid-Range PricingPositioned below Samsung’s flagship feature phones (e.g., the D900), the D508 offered a balance of features and affordability, making it accessible to mainstream consumers. Its combination of a camera, MP3 player, and expandable storage made it a “all-in-one” device for users who did not want to carry separate music players or cameras.

Limitations & Era-Specific Constraints

2G-Only ConnectivityThe D508 supported only GSM 900/1800 MHz networks, with no 3G or Wi-Fi capabilities. This limited web browsing speeds to slow WAP connections, and it could not handle modern mobile data tasks (e.g., streaming video or social media). As of 2025, most global 2G networks have been phased out, rendering the D508 unusable for cellular calls in many regions.
Low-Resolution Camera & DisplayThe 1.3-megapixel camera produced grainy photos by modern standards, and the 176×220 internal display had limited pixel density, resulting in pixelated graphics and text. The monochrome external display also lacked the visual appeal of color external displays on later flip phones.
Proprietary Software & Limited App SupportThe D508 ran on a proprietary OS with no access to modern app stores. Users could only download basic Java ME apps and games, which were limited in functionality compared to smartphone apps. The WAP browser was also unable to render modern HTML5 websites.
Non-Standard Charging PortUnlike modern smartphones with USB-C, the D508 used a Samsung-specific charging port, making it difficult to find replacement chargers in the 2020s (when most legacy accessories have been discontinued).

Legacy & Historical Significance

The Samsung D508 is remembered as a iconic mid-range flip phone of the mid-2000s, representing the peak of feature phone innovation before smartphones (e.g., the iPhone 2007) disrupted the market. Its success solidified Samsung’s reputation for blending style and functionality in mobile devices, laying the groundwork for the company’s later dominance in the smartphone era. Today, the D508 is a popular collector’s item among vintage mobile phone enthusiasts, valued for its retro design and nostalgic appeal.