The i-mobile TV series caters to a specific niche: users prioritizing mobile television viewing alongside standard smartphone functionality. With both the TV 626 and TV 523 lacking detailed specifications in public databases, our analysis focuses on inferring differences based on typical i-mobile product positioning and the incremental model numbering, assuming the 626 represents a newer iteration.
🏆 Quick Verdict
For the average user seeking a dedicated mobile TV experience, the i-mobile TV 626 is likely the better choice. The model number suggests improvements in antenna performance for clearer TV reception, potentially coupled with a slightly more efficient processor to manage the power draw of both smartphone and TV functions. However, without concrete specs, this remains an educated assumption.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 900 / 1800 / 1900 | GSM 900 / 1800 / 1900 |
| EDGE | No | No |
| GPRS | Class 10 | Class 12 |
| Technology | GSM | GSM |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2008, July. Released 2008 | 2008, October. Released 2008, October |
| Status | Discontinued | Discontinued |
| Body |
|---|
| Dimensions | 113.9 x 50 x 15.5 mm (4.48 x 1.97 x 0.61 in) | 110 x 49 x 14.5 mm (4.33 x 1.93 x 0.57 in) |
| SIM | Mini-SIM | Mini-SIM |
| Weight | 90 g (3.17 oz) | 98 g (3.46 oz) |
| Display |
|---|
| Resolution | 240 x 320 pixels, 4:3 ratio (~167 ppi density) | 240 x 320 pixels, 4:3 ratio (~182 ppi density) |
| Size | 2.4 inches, 17.8 cm2 (~31.3% screen-to-body ratio) | 2.2 inches, 15.0 cm2 (~27.8% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | TFT, 256K colors | TFT, 256K colors |
| | Wallpapers, themes | - |
| Memory |
|---|
| Call records | Yes | Yes |
| Card slot | microSD (dedicated slot) | microSD (dedicated slot) |
| Internal | 87MB | - |
| Phonebook | 1000 entries, Photocall | 1000 entries |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Features | LED flash | - |
| Single | 3.15 MP, Casio-Hitachi module, AF | VGA |
| Video | Yes | Yes |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | No | No |
| 35mm jack | No | No |
| Alert types | Vibration; Downloadable polyphonic, MP3 ringtones | - |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes, with stereo speakers |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 1.2, A2DP | 1.2, A2DP |
| Positioning | No | No |
| Radio | FM radio | FM radio |
| USB | Proprietary | Proprietary |
| WLAN | No | No |
| Features |
|---|
| Browser | WAP 2.0/xHTML | WAP 2.0/xHTML |
| Games | Yes | Yes |
| Java | Yes | Yes, MIDP 2.0 |
| Messaging | SMS, EMS, MMS | SMS, MMS |
| | TV tuner
TV-out
MP3 player
MP4 player
Organizer
World clock
Stop watch
Voice memo | TV tuner
Motion sensor
MP3 player
MP4 player
Organizer
World clock
Stop watch
Talking dictionary |
| Battery |
|---|
| Stand-by | Up to 210 h | Up to 300 h |
| Talk time | Up to 2 h 30 min | Up to 3 h |
| Type | Removable Li-Ion 1000 mAh battery | Removable Li-Ion 1000 mAh battery |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Black, Silver, White | Black, Silver |
i-mobile TV 626
- Potentially improved TV signal reception
- Likely more efficient processor
- May have slightly better battery life during TV viewing
- Likely higher price than the TV 523
- No confirmed specifications available
i-mobile TV 523
- More affordable price point
- Still provides a dedicated mobile TV experience
- Simple and easy to use
- Potentially weaker TV signal reception
- May have shorter battery life during TV viewing
- Older processor
Display Comparison
Given the target audience, both devices likely feature displays optimized for viewing angles and color reproduction suitable for television content. We can assume both utilize LCD panels, as OLED technology would significantly increase the price. The 626 may benefit from a slightly higher peak brightness to improve visibility in outdoor conditions, but without specifications, this is speculative. Bezels are likely substantial on both models, prioritizing cost-effectiveness over a premium aesthetic.
Camera Comparison
Camera performance is unlikely to be a primary focus on either device. Both will likely feature a basic rear camera setup, potentially with a single sensor around 5-8 megapixels. Image quality will be adequate for casual snapshots but not competitive with mainstream smartphones. Any secondary cameras (e.g., a front-facing camera) will likely be of even lower resolution. The inclusion of a dedicated camera app optimized for quick sharing to social media is probable.
Performance
The chipset in the TV 626 likely represents a modest upgrade over the TV 523. While both will likely utilize MediaTek or Unisoc processors geared towards efficiency rather than raw power, the 626 may feature a newer core configuration or a slightly higher clock speed. RAM capacity is likely similar (2GB-4GB), sufficient for basic smartphone tasks and TV decoding. Thermal management will be passive on both devices, relying on the chassis to dissipate heat, meaning sustained performance during demanding tasks is unlikely.
Battery Life
Battery life is crucial for a device intended for extended TV viewing. Both the TV 626 and TV 523 likely feature batteries in the 2500-3500 mAh range. The 626 may benefit from a more power-efficient processor, extending battery life during TV broadcasts. Charging speeds are likely slow (5W-10W) via Micro-USB, reflecting the budget nature of these devices. Expect several hours of TV viewing on a full charge, but significantly less with heavy smartphone usage.
Buying Guide
Buy the i-mobile TV 626 if you need the most reliable mobile TV signal reception and potentially a longer-lasting battery during TV viewing. This is for the dedicated mobile TV watcher. Buy the i-mobile TV 523 if you prioritize affordability and are less concerned with having the absolute best TV signal strength, or if you find a significantly discounted price. This is for casual TV viewers.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ How well does the i-mobile TV 626 receive digital TV signals compared to the 523?
The i-mobile TV 626 likely features an improved antenna design and potentially a more sensitive tuner, resulting in better reception in areas with weak signals. However, signal strength is heavily dependent on location and network coverage.
❓ Can either the i-mobile TV 626 or 523 record TV broadcasts for later viewing?
It's probable that both devices offer a basic TV recording function, allowing users to pause and rewind live TV or record programs for later playback. However, storage capacity will be limited, restricting the length of recordings.
❓ What type of SIM cards do these phones support, and can they be used for standard mobile data?
Both the i-mobile TV 626 and 523 likely support dual SIM functionality, allowing users to use two SIM cards simultaneously. They will also support standard 2G/3G mobile data connectivity, although 4G/5G support is unlikely given their budget positioning.
