I need a back up mobile phone, with very minimum features, call and sms only. Bunch of features only add the price and would consume unnecessary power.
Why I need a back up? Besides anticipating run out of power on the road, I'm aware of possible incident such as recent catasthrope in Padang Indonesia where power availability is critial. I could buy a car charger or spare battery for my blackberry but I learned also that its not a bad idea to have another handset with different operator, which again might be critical in emergency situation. So.. I should get another cheap, minimum feature, small size, good battery, branded mobile phone (dont give me scrap lousy unbrand product from China)
Its funny when a friend told me that its too ideal.. - wow.. I just heard there is an "ideal" thing for a cheap barebones kind of product..
But it doesn't take that long to find it. A $45 phone, Samsung E1107 Crest Solar, with less-add-on except radio -so far I don't have mobile radio, so its just cool.
The main bonus is the solar panel at the back. they say it would give you 10-15 minutes talk on 1 hour solar charge. Even this is not the main power source, but this gives you extra cushion. The battery I believe isn't a powerful one, but the solar is just unexpected. Another bonus: it made from recycled material. Let see if I really have to salute Samsung.
Yesterday, I was having conversation with colleagues on how environmental friendly so called "green" materials relate with the price. The common perception which taken for granted is that green product is most likely expensive. Now I get kinda green product, very functional, and cheap.
Will see how good Samsung deal with this..
