NEC
G9

The NEC G9 was introduced in 1997 and had an alphanumeric 4 x 12 character monochrome display. In addition to the basic phone functions, it included a clock with an alarm, a range of call timers and 7 ringtones. An address book feature was supported, allowing telephone numbers and associated names to be stored only in the SIM card memory.  The device was noteworthy as an early example of a GSM phone capable of sending and receiving SMS text messages. While the NEC G9 sold very modest volumes compared to market leader Nokia, it was a commercial success in the UK, regularly bundled in contract deals by major mobile networks Vodafone and Cellnet. It was positioned as a reliable entry- to mid-tier device for users who wanted the quality of a Japanese electronics giant without the premium price tag of a higher-end Ericsson or Motorola phone.