Motorola Charm (MB502/ME502)

Photo: 7r0w4w4y via Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 3.0)

Motorola

Motorola Charm (MB502/ME502)

August 2010 3/10 Rating
In brief: The Motorola Charm was a compact Android smartphone released in August 2010, notable for its square-ish design, full front-facing QWERTY keyboard, and a unique "BACKTRACK" touchpad on its rear. Running Android 2.1 Eclair with Motorola's MOTOBLUR UI, it targeted messaging-focused users who desired a physical keyboard and social media integration.
Display2.8-inch TFT, 320x240 pixels
ChipsetTI OMAP 3410
Main Camera3.15 MP
Battery1130 mAh Li-Ion
Starting from $65 in International

💰 Motorola Charm (MB502/ME502) Price in United States

The international price (India, USA, UK & most other countries) is around $65, based on current retailer listings.

⚖ Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Physical QWERTY keyboard for fast typing
  • Compact and pocketable design
  • Unique BACKTRACK navigation pad
  • Expandable storage via microSD
  • Removable battery

Cons

  • Very small, low-resolution display
  • Outdated Android 2.1 Eclair (non-upgradeable)
  • Low-resolution camera with no flash or front camera
  • Limited internal storage for apps
  • Slow processor by modern standards
  • No longer supported with updates or modern apps
★ Our Verdict

While innovative for its time with a QWERTY keyboard and unique touchpad, its severely outdated software, small low-resolution screen, and basic camera make it impractical for modern use.

The Motorola Charm is a relic of an earlier smartphone era and is not recommended for daily use in today's world. Its Android 2.1 operating system is incompatible with virtually all modern applications, and its hardware is extremely limited. This device is best suited for collectors of vintage mobile phones, enthusiasts interested in the evolution of smartphone design, or those seeking a nostalgic piece of tech history. Do not purchase this phone expecting it to function as a contemporary smartphone.

📦 In The Box & Warranty

  • Motorola Charm smartphone
  • Standard Li-Ion battery
  • Charger
  • USB data cable
  • 2GB microSD card
  • User manual

Typically, new phones at the time came with a one-year limited manufacturer's warranty.

❓ Questions & Answers

What operating system does the Motorola Charm run?

The Motorola Charm runs on Android 2.1 Eclair, overlaid with Motorola's MOTOBLUR user interface.

Does the Motorola Charm have a physical keyboard?

Yes, the Motorola Charm is well-known for its front-facing full QWERTY physical keyboard, designed for efficient messaging.

When was the Motorola Charm released?

The Motorola Charm was announced in July 2010 and officially released in August 2010.

Can I use modern apps on the Motorola Charm?

No, due to its very old Android 2.1 operating system, the Motorola Charm is not compatible with virtually any modern applications available today.

What is the "BACKTRACK" feature on the Motorola Charm?

The BACKTRACK is a unique touch-sensitive pad located on the rear of the phone, allowing users to navigate, scroll, and make selections without obstructing the main display with their fingers.

Is the Motorola Charm still a viable phone for daily use?

No, the Motorola Charm is not a viable phone for daily use in the current technological landscape due to its outdated software, limited hardware, and lack of support for modern applications and network standards.