The Barbie Phone is a thing of beauty, much like its namesake, the iconic fashion doll. However, just as Barbie’s proportions have been criticized for being unrealistic and unattainable, the Barbie Phone falls short in terms of functionality and usability.
A Delightful Package
From the moment you unbox the phone, it’s clear that HMD has committed to the "Barbie" aesthetic. The packaging is pink, with rhinestone stickers and interchangeable back plates adding to its charm. Even the charger and battery are pink, though they don’t quite match Mattel’s signature Pantone 219 shade.
The Phone Itself
The Barbie Phone is based on one of HMD’s feature phones, which means it comes with limited features like calling, texting, email, and a basic web browser. While this might be appealing to collectors or those looking for a nostalgic device, it’s frustrating to use in daily life.
KaiOS: The Operating System
The phone runs on KaiOS, an operating system designed for feature phones. It’s a far cry from the sophisticated smartphones we’re accustomed to using today. The interface is colorful and fun, but it quickly becomes tiresome to navigate.
Disconnecting with Barbie
According to HMD, the nostalgic design and limited features are meant to encourage users to disconnect and spend time with friends in person. A series of "Barbie Tips" in the phone’s menus offer advice on how to achieve this balance.
- No need to give up your smartphone entirely. Find a balance between your smartphone and your Barbie Phone.
- Make tech-free zones in your own DreamHouse. More room for fun!
The idea of using the Barbie Phone as a way to disconnect from our hyper-connected world sounds appealing, but the reality is far more complicated.
The Agony of T9
One of the biggest challenges with the Barbie Phone is its alphanumeric keypad. Trying to enter your Google account password or find specific characters like curly brackets in T9 can be maddening.
A Frustrating Experience
Aside from texting, some of the features on this phone just didn’t work properly for me. I successfully synced my Google calendar, but my appointments appeared on the wrong days for reasons I couldn’t fathom. The FM radio app refused to recognize my wired earbuds, and the web browser was painfully slow.
A Collectible Item
The Barbie Phone is a fun collector’s item, but it’s not meant for daily use. It’s a nostalgic device that’s more suited to playing with than actually using.
Conclusion
The Barbie Phone may be a delightful package, but its limitations and frustrations make it hard to recommend as a functional phone. While it’s a great conversation starter or collector’s item, it’s not something you’ll want to use regularly.
