Ericsson
A1018s

The Ericsson A1018s was introduced in 1999 and described in the press release accompanying the launch as a phone for “people who require affordable communications for every occasion”. Like the pioneering Ericsson GA 628 it had numerous interchangeable face plates, however the body of the phone came in five different colours creating what Ericsson called “an unmatched amount of personal colour combinations.” It was the first Ericsson “A-class” phone, a range that was designed to deliver “fun, easy to use, value for money products”. The company hoped it would “appeal to people from all walks of life.” The phone chassis was available in “sober Granite Grey and a rich Plum Wine” to “appeal to the business-minded.” Another variant, Desert Khaki, was supplied with Midnight Blue and Firebrick Red exchangeable front panels and was designed “for the more vivacious”. Other colour variants included Olive Green “with Lime Green and Mandarin Orange exchangeable front panels for those who like warm natural colours” and Light Steel Blue with “Chocolate Brown and Cream White panels for those who prefer something a little more luscious.” Ericsson also offered special edition and promotional front panels, with a notable promotional example being offered in partnership with Coca-Cola. The A1018s was almost indestructible, being described by Ericsson as having a “sturdy, long lasting frame.” It had a “clear, simple and easily navigated menu system” as well as a graphic display that was designed to make it easier for users to read the screen. The technical details included dual band support designed to work on GSM 900 and GSM 1800 frequencies and the ability to support cellular data, fax and SMS. It was also compatible Ericsson Mobile Companion MC 218 – a rebadged variant of the Psion Series 5 Epoc 5MX.