[5] The 1100 achieved its popularity despite being made during a time when more modern and advanced devices were available in the market.

It was targeted towards developing countries and users who do not require advanced features beyond making calls and SMS text messages, alarm clock, reminders, etc.

[6] The Nokia 1100 was the company's cheapest mobile phone when it was released to the market,[7] making it ideal for the developing world.

[9] The software was adapted and ported to the DCT4 platform at Nokia Copenhagen, Denmark by members of the S30 group.

[10] In early 2009, it was in the news due to a firmware flaw[11] in a batch of phones that were manufactured in a plant in Bochum, Germany.