Haier M318: Budget-Friendly Feature Phone from 2007

Haier M318 (2007)

English Definition

The Haier M318 is an entry-level feature phone released in 2007 by Haier Electronics Group, positioned as a budget-friendly device for basic voice communication, text messaging, and simple multimedia functions. Targeting cost-conscious users, seniors, and secondary phone users who prioritize reliability and ease of use, it features a compact candybar design, 1.8-inch color LCD, 0.3MP VGA camera, and a removable lithium-ion battery, competing with low-end feature phones from brands like Nokia and Samsung in the mid-2000s market.

Core Specifications

Category	Details
Launch & Positioning	Released: 2007; entry-level feature phone; single SIM (GSM 900/1800 MHz); price: approx. $40–$50 (unlocked); colors: Classic Black, Silver Gray
Display	1.8-inch TFT color LCD; 128×160 pixels (~114 ppi); 65K color depth; non-touchscreen; backlit for low-light visibility; basic status bar for signal, battery, and time
Camera & Multimedia	– Rear Camera: 0.3MP VGA sensor (640×480 pixels); digital zoom (4x max); no flash; video capture: QCIF (176×144) @10fps (3GP format)- Multimedia: MP3/AAC audio playback; MP4/3GP video playback; FM radio (mono, no RDS); 3.5mm headphone jack
Memory & Storage	Built-in storage: 32MB (shared for contacts, SMS, media files); no expandable microSD slot; phonebook capacity: up to 500 contacts; SMS capacity: up to 200 messages
Battery & Charging	800mAh removable Li-ion battery; standby time: up to 200 hours; talk time: up to 3–4 hours; charging via proprietary USB cable (non-standard port); no fast charging
Connectivity	GSM 900/1800 MHz; GPRS Class 10 (up to 80 kbps for basic WAP browsing); Bluetooth 1.2 (for wireless headsets only, no file transfer); infrared (IrDA) port for limited data sync; no Wi-Fi, 3G, or NFC
Build & Design	Candybar form factor; dimensions: 105×45×12 mm; weight: ~78g; durable plastic body; physical T9 keypad with large, tactile buttons; dedicated volume keys on the side; rear battery cover with Haier logo
Software & Features	Proprietary feature phone OS; core functions: voice calls, SMS/MMS, WAP 2.0 browser (for basic mobile websites); utilities: alarm clock, calculator, calendar, stopwatch, unit converter; no smart features or app support

Key Features & Market Position

Compact & Durable DesignThe lightweight (78g) candybar build and large T9 keypad made the M318 easy to hold and operate, especially for users who preferred physical buttons over touchscreens. Its plastic body was designed for daily wear and tear, suitable for backup phones or basic communication needs.
Basic Multimedia CapabilitiesEquipped with a 0.3MP VGA camera for casual snapshots, MP3 playback, and FM radio, it catered to users seeking simple entertainment without the cost of a smartphone. The 3.5mm headphone jack was a practical addition for private audio listening.
Affordable & ReliablePriced under $50, the M318 was targeted at budget users, first-time mobile phone owners, and seniors who only needed core communication functions. Its long standby time (up to 200 hours) reduced the frequency of charging, a key advantage for users with limited access to power outlets.
Basic ConnectivityBluetooth 1.2 supported wireless headsets for hands-free calls, while GPRS enabled basic WAP browsing for checking weather or news on mobile-friendly sites— a standard feature for entry-level feature phones in 2007.

Strengths & Limitations

Strengths

Ultra-compact and lightweight design, easy to carry in pockets or small bags.
Low price point, accessible for budget-conscious users and secondary phone use.
Long standby time reduces charging frequency for daily basic use.
Large T9 keypad and backlit display improve usability in low-light conditions.

Limitations

No expandable storage; limited built-in memory restricts media file storage.
Outdated Bluetooth 1.2 only supports headsets, not file transfer or speaker pairing.
VGA camera produces low-resolution photos with no flash, unsuitable for low-light shooting.
Proprietary charging port is inconvenient for replacement or universal use.
No 3G support; GPRS provides slow data speeds for basic browsing only.

Market Role

The Haier M318 (2007) was a typical entry-level feature phone in the pre-smartphone era, filling the niche for users who required only basic communication functions at a minimal cost. It competed with devices like the Nokia 1200 and Samsung E1100, targeting emerging markets, seniors, and consumers needing a reliable backup phone. As smartphones gained traction in the late 2000s, the M318 and similar feature phones gradually became niche products for users seeking simplicity over advanced features.