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Samsung

Samsung Focus (SGH-i917)

November 8, 2010 7/10 Rating
In brief: The Samsung Focus was an early and notable smartphone running Microsoft's Windows Phone 7 operating system. It featured a vibrant 4.0-inch Super AMOLED display and was one of the first Windows Phones to offer expandable storage via a microSD card slot.
Display4.0-inch Super AMOLED with 480x800 resolution
ChipsetQualcomm Snapdragon S1 (1.0 GHz Scorpion CPU)
Main Camera5 MP with autofocus and 720p video
Battery1500 mAh Li-Ion
Starting from $25 in International

💰 Samsung Focus (SGH-i917) Price in United States

The international price (India, USA, UK & most other countries) is around $25, based on current retailer listings.

⚖ Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Excellent Super AMOLED display for its time
  • Responsive Windows Phone 7 operating system
  • Expandable storage via microSD card, a rarity for early Windows Phones
  • Good camera quality for photos and video
  • Sleek and lightweight design

Cons

  • No front-facing camera
  • Windows Phone 7 had limited app ecosystem compared to Android/iOS
  • MicroSD card installation could be tricky and required specific performance
  • Lacked features like copy and paste at launch
  • Feels plasticky to some users
★ Our Verdict

The Samsung Focus was a strong contender in the early Windows Phone 7 market, offering a brilliant display and expandable storage, but was limited by the nascent OS and lack of a front camera.

The Samsung Focus is a vintage smartphone, primarily of interest to collectors, Windows Phone enthusiasts, or those seeking a nostalgic experience. It runs an outdated operating system (Windows Phone 7) with a defunct app store, meaning it cannot function as a modern daily driver. If you're considering it, understand its limitations regarding app availability, security updates, and compatibility with current services. Its Super AMOLED screen and unique place in smartphone history are its main appeals today. Ensure any purchase is for historical or collection purposes, as its practical utility is minimal in 2026.

📦 In The Box & Warranty

  • Samsung Focus (SGH-i917) handset
  • Removable Li-Ion 1500 mAh battery
  • Wall charger
  • MicroUSB cable
  • Wired headset
  • Quick start guide and documentation

Standard manufacturer's warranty, typically 1 year from the date of purchase.

❓ Questions & Answers

What operating system does the Samsung Focus run?

The Samsung Focus originally ran Microsoft's Windows Phone 7 operating system and was upgradable to Windows Phone 7.5 Mango.

When was the Samsung Focus released?

The Samsung Focus was announced in October 2010 and released on November 8, 2010, primarily through AT&T in the United States and Rogers Wireless in Canada.

Does the Samsung Focus have a front camera?

No, the original Samsung Focus (SGH-i917) does not feature a front-facing camera.

Can the storage on the Samsung Focus be expanded?

Yes, the Samsung Focus was notable for being one of the few early Windows Phone devices to support expandable storage via a microSDHC card, up to 32 GB.

What kind of display does the Samsung Focus have?

It features a 4.0-inch Super AMOLED capacitive touchscreen with a resolution of 480 x 800 pixels, protected by Corning Gorilla Glass.

Is the Samsung Focus still usable today?

While it can power on, the Samsung Focus runs an outdated operating system with a defunct app store, making it largely impractical for modern daily use. It is primarily suitable for collectors or enthusiasts.