Nokia is reviving its classic 6310 ‘brick’ phone to celebrate 20 years since its initial launch in the UK. This phone, known for its bulky body and substantial weight, represented a significant era in mobile technology. It was a behemoth of a device when it first hit the market, offering a stark contrast to today’s sleek smartphones.
In an interesting turn, some suggest using these “brick phones” as an alternative to smartphones for children at school. This move, endorsed by a Government minister, aims to enhance students’ focus and time management. Despite being a high-value electronic device in its time, the ‘brick’ phone is now often joked about as being no more useful than a literal brick or paperweight.
Reflecting on its charm, the 6310 was not just a phone but a style statement. Its metal body, a then-impressive 320×240 screen, and an efficient keyboard made it as much an object of admiration as a communication tool. Motorola’s first mobile phone in 1983, famously dubbed “the brick,” was even more colossal, with an antenna measuring 20 cm and a weight of 784g, rendering it impractical for pocket storage.
Nokia’s rugged original ‘brick’ phone may have set a precedent, but modern iterations like the XR21 continue to evolve the concept. For those yearning for the simplicity and durability of the past, Nokia’s re-release offers a chance to relive the days of playing Snake on a robust, almost indestructible phone. Meanwhile, Nokia’s 2023 range showcases the latest in Android smartphones, mobile phones, and accessories, catering to a broader audience, including the elderly who prefer simpler mobile devices.
The iconic ‘brick’ phone, despite its heft (weighing 790g) and modest 30 minutes of talk time, was a milestone in making mobile phones accessible to the general public. Its prolonged 10-hour charge time is a stark reminder of how far mobile technology has advanced.
